Closing The Gap In A Long Distance Relationship
Long distance relationships can be difficult. The strain of being apart might eventually reach a point in which you can no longer handle it – in which case, it may be time to close the gap. But just what is the best way of doing this? Here are just a few ways to get closer in a long distance relationship.
Can you close the gap virtually?
First, consider if there’s a way of bridging the gap without actually physically meeting up. If meeting in person right now isn’t possible, this could be the only option.
A virtual date could be a possibility. Don’t just have a conversation but plan an activity together such as each attempting to cook the same meal at the same time, streaming a movie together (the likes of Netflix party allows you to stream movies at the same time) or playing an online game or quiz together.
Is it time to make the move?
Travelling back and forth to see each other can get expensive and exhausting. There may come a point when you think to yourself ‘should I move out and live with them?’.
A long distance move is not an easy decision to take. It could involve leaving behind other loved ones, quitting your job and adjusting to a new place where you may not know anyone but your partner. When moving, you need to make sure that the personal sacrifices are not too great.
A move to another country can be even more challenging. It could mean having to adjust to a new culture and possibly even learning a new language. Even if you’re married to that person, you may have to pass rigorous visa applications. Certain countries may offer support such as UK spouse visa help, which is worth looking into. Taking the time to learn the culture will also be beneficial – if you’re moving to Spain for instance, you might want to download a Spanish language learning app to help you establish some of the basic lingo.
Any long distance move should be done for the benefit of yourself and not simply the benefit of your partner. Ask yourself if you would have ever considered a long distance move if you were single. Are you an adventurer at heart who is up for taking on challenges. If so, a long distance move could be very rewarding. If not, you struggle to adjust and could live to regret it.
Should they move for you?
If you have more commitments than they do, it might be more sensible for them to make the move. For instance, if you’ve got a serious career or close family bonds and they haven’t, they clearly have less to lose by moving in with you.
Location can also make a big impact. If you live in a city and they live in a village, they may have more luck getting a new job by moving in with you. That said, you may be sick of city life, in which you may prefer to move in with them.
The two of you will have to discuss it to work out what is best for the both of you. You may even decide to move somewhere entirely new together so that you’re both making the leap.