As a couple in a long-distance relationship, it is vital to have something to look forward to. Planning your next meeting during a pandemic might be difficult but set a date anyway. Make it a reasonable date, that could be achievable, given the circumstances in your country or countries. We all know the feeling of waiting for your birthday when you have great gifts to open, the excitement of the build up towards the birthday party, all the preparation, thinking about what you will need, visioning the party and how it will flow and what food you will serve.
When in a long-distance relationship knowing the next time you are going to see one another is like looking forward to a birthday party. It builds the energy of excitement, you can plan what you will do together, who you will see and where you will go.
Research shows that couples who have excitement in their relationship experience a higher relationship satisfaction (Aaron et al, 2000). How can you bring excitement into your relationship from a distance? This is where you will need to be creative.
You could surprise your partner by sending them surprise gifts – surprises always bring excitement.
You could send your partner a play list.
You could make something special for them.
You could go on a hike together on a video call or texting each other pictures of where you are as you arrive.
You could make a delicious, romantic meal and share it over a video call.
You can share and discuss intellectually stimulating things you are both interested in.
Jen
Reference: Aaron, A, Norman, C., Aaron, E., McKenna, C. & Heyman, R. E. (2000). Couples’ shared participation in novel and arousing activities and experienced relationship quality. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 78 (2), 273-284.