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“Long-distance relationships are all about patience.” – Stephanie Perkins
Being long-distance best friends is a topic that’s less frequently discussed. Moving away from home can be challenging, and managing relationships in the midst of such change can be even more difficult. It’s an experience neither we nor our friends are fully prepared for.
While distance might be tough, it’s also the ultimate test of time. Being miles apart brings new challenges. Whether it’s for work, education, or personal reasons, moving away can leave friendships in a delicate state, as interactions and shared experiences become harder to maintain. 
Distance can lead to misunderstandings, feelings of neglect, and even the fear of drifting apart. These challenges are natural, but they don’t have to be the end of the story. With consistent effort, true bonds can survive the distance.
Navigating the new rules
The initial phase of a long-distance friendship is often the most challenging. As one friend adapts to a new environment—be it a different city, country, or culture—the other might struggle with the changes in their dynamic.
The friend who has moved might feel overwhelmed by the need to settle in, make new connections, and process the changes. Meanwhile, the friend who remains in familiar surroundings may feel left behind, missing the presence and support of their best friend.
Being miles apart tests the resilience of a friendship. It’s a delicate time of change that requires balancing the need for space with the desire for closeness. Whether the bond lasts or not depends on how you manage this period.
Long distance can make friendships feel weakened, but if you succeed in keeping the connection alive, there’s no one you’d rather have by your side than your best friend.
6 ways to maintain and build a healthy bond
1. Regular communication
Communicating your needs is crucial. In long-distance friendships, talking is the key to making things work. You do not have the luxury of hanging out or meeting up, so the only way to stay up-to-date is via consistent communication. Texts, calls, or video chats—sharing even the smallest moments helps bridge the gap and keeps the bond strong.
Scheduling regular catch-ups—like a weekly call or daily text exchange—can establish a rhythm for your communication. Define what consistency means for both of you and work together to build these routines. This ensures your friendship remains strong despite being miles apart.
2. Be Understanding and Patient
It can get lonely when we are all by ourselves. Availability becomes an issue when you’re no longer in the same city. Your friend might not be available when you need them, and vice versa. Patience is essential during this time.
As both friends adapt to their new realities, it’s important to be understanding of the changes each is experiencing. One friend might be busier with their new life, while the other may have more free time and feel neglected.
In these situations, empathy and patience are essential. Life is moving at a different pace for both of you and being flexible and compassionate toward your best mate’s circumstances can make a big difference. Instead of jumping to conclusions, opening up prevents the friendship from becoming toxic. Strive to understand and be understood.
3. Become virtually creative
Similar to what friends used to do when everyone was during lockdown, distance shouldn’t dictate whether you can share experiences or not. Virtual activities are a great way to maintain your bond and create new memories.
Whether it’s watching a movie, playing a video game, having a book reading session over a call, or simply enjoying dinner together while catching up, there are so many things you can do to regain that sense of togetherness.
Sharing these moments gives you both something to look forward to—so far, yet so close.
4. Surprise visits and messages
Surprising your friend with a visit is one of the best ways to make them feel special. When living apart, we all have days when we long to see our friends, and there’s no better feeling than an unexpected visit. It’s your way of saying, “You are so special!” This gesture reinforces their importance in your life.
Likewise, sending a thoughtful gift, arranging a surprise call, or posting a heartfelt letter can go a long way in making your friend feel valued and remembered. Staying engaged in each other’s lives, despite the distance, ensures that your friendship remains meaningful.
5. Plan holidays
A weekend getaway or a small staycation can be just what you need—a break from work with your best friend in a faraway place. This time together allows you to reconnect and rejuvenate, reinforcing the importance of your friendship. Celebrating life together truly matters.
6. Celebrate milestones
“They are probably busy”—a thought that often arises when we’re far apart but have something to share. Celebrating milestones, such as a birthday, promotion, or personal achievement, helps maintain a strong connection despite the distance.
Sharing and acknowledging these moments shows that you value each other’s involvement. Real friends would applaud your successes, no matter how far apart you are.
To conclude,
Embrace the journey, rather than fear it. Maintaining a long-distance friendship is undoubtedly challenging, but it’s a test that can deepen your bond. Through regular communication, understanding, shared activities, planned reunions, and active involvement in each other’s lives, these friendships can flourish.
In the end, when you look back and realize that you’ve navigated an ocean of changes together, there will be nothing but a sense of pride and enduring love for each other. The moments of overcoming hardships together will become your greatest victories. It’s proven that friendships can last a lifetime when both people make the effort equally.
