We've all had connections with friends or family members that have suffered due to distance. Many people have to deal with either leaving behind family or letting a loved one move to a new location.
There are many different reasons people might decide to move out of their current home, and the decision depends on a combination of personal, professional, and lifestyle factors.
- A change in job or employment status.
- If someone gets married, has a child, or experiences a shift in their family dynamic.
- Some people want a change of place.
- Some want to live in a different climate or environment.
It is normal to feel nervous, especially if you have always lived close to them. It is a big change and can be intimidating.
Stay connected, even if far away
Maintaining relationships with family members who live far away can be challenging, but it can also be rewarding. Here are a few tips for keeping in touch with long-distance family members:
- Set up regular communication: Make a plan to communicate with your family members regularly, be it through phone calls, video chats, or text messages. [ Additional read: Communication & relationships! ]
- Share updates and photos: Keep your family members up-to-date on what's going on in your life by sharing updates and photos through social media or regular communication.
- Make time for visits: If you can visit each other, plan trips to see each other in person. Even if you can't visit as often as you'd like, these visits can be a crucial way to strengthen your bond.
- Stay connected through shared interests: If you have shared interests or hobbies, consider finding ways to stay connected through those activities. For example, you could read the same book and discuss it over the phone or watch a movie together via video chat.
- Consider using technology to stay connected: Some many tools and apps can help you stay connected with long-distance family members. Some options include video chat platforms like Whatsapp, Snapchat, Skype, or Zoom.
- Take care of yourself: Moving can be stressful, so it's important to make self-care a priority. Make time for activities that help you relax and de-stress, such as exercising, reading, or spending time outdoors.
- Try to keep an open mind: It can be helpful if you try to embrace the change and see it as an opportunity for growth and new experiences. Try to be open to the new people and opportunities that come your way, and remember that it's okay to take things one step at a time.
Also check: How to stop worrying about your long distance relation?
Remember, maintaining long-distance relationships takes effort and communication, but it can be a rewarding experience.
Tips to stay-in-touch when you're living abroad
Being away from the people you love can be difficult, especially if you are not able to see them as often as you would like. There are a few things you can do to help ease the feeling of missing your family while you're are living abroad:
- Stay connected: Make an effort to stay in touch with your family through phone calls, video chats, and messaging apps. This can help you feel more connected to them even when you are not physically together.
- Make new connections: While living abroad, you may have the opportunity to meet new people and form new friendships. Having a social support network can help you feel less lonely and homesick.
- Find ways to stay connected to your culture: Whether it's through food, music, or other cultural traditions, finding ways to celebrate your culture can help you feel more connected to your family and home.
- Seek support: If you are struggling with feelings of homesickness or loneliness, it can be helpful to speak with a mental health professional or join a support group.
Conclusion
It is obvious to have doubts, fears, or mixed emotions about different aspects of your life. Remember that it is completely normal to miss your family while staying away from them, and it is okay to take the time to process these feelings. With time, you may find that living this way also becomes easier, and you can create a new sense of belongingness in this phase too.