Valentine’s day is around the corner, and as a travel nurse, long-distance relationships can be a challenge. This is the one day of the year when everyone is thinking about their loved ones and what they will get or do for them. Dating while being on a travel nurse assignment can be tricky, so here are some tips to help you and your partner stay connected.
Establish a Routine with Each Other
As a nurse, your routine might be the opposite of your significant other. Establish a routine with your partner to find a time that works for both of you. This is a meaningful way to give them undivided attention while being away on a travel nurse assignment. Routine can be talking on the phone every morning before work or even after work to discuss your day. Using simple communication programs like Skype or FaceTime can make talking together simple and provide the feeling of closeness. Knowing when you will be speaking and what to expect while away on an assignment can help set expectations to help your relationship thrive.
Communication is Key
Communication is the key to any healthy relationship, and a long-distance relationship is no different if not more important. When you are not with someone to see your actions, it is essential to voice those emotions. If you find yourself not knowing what to talk to your partner about, prepare something to talk about ahead of time so the conversation will be fruitful.
Make Time for Each Other
Making time for your partner is important while taking travel nurse assignments. It is especially important to plan times during longer assignments to go home and see your partner or for them to come and visit you. If there is not an easy way to see your partner, then find time to do something together while apart, such as watching the same movie at the same time or playing virtual games like Words with Friends. Making exciting plans with each other can help bring enthusiasm into a relationship and give you both something to look forward to.
Joining the Same Assignment
Is your significant other a travel nurse or in a position to travel? If possible, take some time to work near each other on an assignment. If not the exact location, being assigned to a similar area can allow partners to see each other more. Couples in the military are often afforded this same luxury to be stationed close to one another.
Be Supportive of One Another
Being in a long-distance relationship while on a travel nurse assignment can be hard for both you and your significant other. You and your partner will be going through many emotions and might not always be there for each other. This is why it is important to be as supportive as you can while away. Be honest and let them know what you feel and anything they can do to help you feel better.
Find Your Next Travel Nursing Assignment With CareerStaff
At CareerStaff, we have hundreds of amazing travel assignments in regions across the country! The nurses and clinicians who travel with us love our lineup of great benefits, and we’re also proud to offer top pay and weekly stipends for our travel assignments. Our list of available travel jobs is updated every day; you can search all of our current travel job openings here.