Job relocation, university life – they’re inevitable parts of a human’s life cycle. It takes a lot of determination and will to be ready to be away from your family for a long period. Upon reaching your new destination, the culture shock provides an adrenaline rush – and you’re excited to try new things, make new friends.
But… the adrenaline rush would eventually come to an abrupt halt. That’s when depression and homesickness kick in and would effect one’s work performance.
Maintaining a healthy, long-distance relationship with family is harder than it seems, but.. not to worry – this article will help you through your LDR with your family.
Share your life (moderately) on Social Media
Social Media is accessible to just about every and anyone who has a working smartphone and Wi-Fi. Keeping in touch with your family on Facebook would be a lot more convenient, as Facebook has the comments and reaction buttons. Don’t think it’s uncool to have your mother or grandmother as a friend on your friend list: at least they will show unconditional love and support for what you planned for your own life.
Schedule calls & update status on family group chat
The initial usage of a working mobile phone is to receive and forward calls. With the advancement of smartphones, it’s easier to make a call to your family. If there isn’t enough time in the week due to work or university assignments, schedule a bi-weekly call with your family to check up on them. Not only that, Family WhatsApp group chats may be filled with fake news, sticker spams. It’s also a great way to keep in touch whenever.
Visit home often
Use annual leave and semester breaks to visit home instead of travelling elsewhere, as there’s only a limited amount of free time. And, to treasure family relationships, you must endeavor to spend time with them. The trip to some place far away could wait, as your family may not be there when you next have time to visit.
Remember & mark special dates
Always keep a calendar handy on your cubicle desk, dorm room study table. Mark the calendar for important dates such as the holidays, anniversaries, birthdays. Sending wishes to your family and letting them know you care and are thinking about them is great. If you’re feeling extra, post some quirky birthday card or holiday card home with a message in it too.
Being away from your comfortable home life isn’t easy. Maintaining a healthy relationship with your family is harder. After reading this, give a call to your mom and tell her ‘I love you mom.’ It would make her day a lot better.
