COVID Craziness: How to endure the uncertainties of being in a relationship
At the beginning of quarantine, jokes were constantly being made about the people who were lucky enough to already have significant others going into quarantine.
While it is true that restrictions and lockdowns make it very difficult to meet, date, and get to know new people, COVID also complicated relationships that were already in existence.
In the blink of an eye, you may not be allowed to see your significant other for weeks. All of the special plans and adventures you carefully prepared vanish. Poof, gone. Guess what? COVID doesn’t care.
You may also notice the constant fear that by hanging out with them, you might be unknowingly giving them COVID. All of this can strain a relationship and add one more disappointment to an already stressful year.
Need advice? Don’t worry; here are a few tips to make it through COVID with your significant other, and even come out stronger on the other side.
Be creative.
When COVID prevents you from being together in person, be resourceful about how you can still spend time together. For couples who are already in long distance relationships, this might come a little easier. Times like these are when I’m very grateful for modern technology. Thanks to FaceTime, you can still see each other and have conversations. It’s not the same as in-person communication, but it’s better than nothing.
Send each other memes on Instagram for some comic relief, communication, and getting your mind off your woes. Watch TV shows or movies together on Netflix Party or Hulu Party. And, if you’re in the same city, sit on the porch six feet apart when you have to quarantine away from each other.
Be grateful.
Several times, I had planned to hang out with my boyfriend moments before I got the bad news that one of us had to quarantine. We immediately had to cancel our plans and realign our relationship expectations to go days, or even weeks, without seeing each other. Let me tell you, having time with one of your favorite people ripped out of your hands is very frustrating.
However, as the great philosopher Winnie the Pooh famously said, “How lucky I am to have something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” I really am very lucky to have someone so special that I am sad I can’t see them. Also, it makes you a lot more grateful for the time that you have had and do have together.
Gain perspective.
It’s easy to become very wrapped up in a SO. While they do play a large part in your life, they should never be everything. Being forced to be apart from them for a little while sucks, but it can help realign your perspective to the other important people and things in your life. You can still learn about yourself, communicate with an old-time friend, and spark your creativity.
Additionally, it really highlights the one Person who loves you that will never be taken away and is always with you. Always remember that should be your number one relationship.
To all of you currently dating during the craziness of 2020 and now 2021, I understand your pain. But you can make it. Focus on being creative, being grateful, and gaining perspective, and with any good relationship, the trials and hardships will only strengthen you. You got this.
Sincerely, Hannah
Photography: Hannah B. and Mary Georgia H.