Strategies to Maintain Trust and Intimacy During Deployment
One of the biggest challenges faced by military couples is maintaining their relationship while one partner is deployed for an extended period. Deployments can last anywhere from six months to several years, and this separation can put a strain on even the strongest of relationships.
There are several strategies that can be employed to help maintain trust and intimacy between partners despite the physical distance between them.
1) Communicate openly and frequently: The key to maintaining trust during deployment is communication. Military couples should try to communicate as often as possible, whether it's through phone calls, emails, text messages, or video chats. They should also be honest and open about their thoughts, feelings, and experiences while away. It's important to set aside time each day to check in with each other and catch up on what's been going on since they last spoke. This will help keep the lines of communication open and build trust.
2) Make plans together: Planning ahead can also help maintain trust and intimacy. Military couples should make plans together before deployment, such as setting dates to talk or discussing future goals and aspirations. This can give both partners something to look forward to and ensure that their bond remains strong throughout the deployment. It also helps to have a shared vision for the future and a sense of continuity in their relationship.
3) Stay physically active: Physical activity can be a great way to stay connected even when separated by distance. Military couples can exercise together via online fitness classes, send each other workout videos, or simply share photos of their exercise routines. This can help keep the spark alive and remind each other of their connection.
4) Focus on positive memories: It's natural to miss each other during deployment, but military couples should focus on positive memories instead of dwelling on the separation. They can create photo albums, write love letters, or exchange gifts to help them remember the good times they've had together. By focusing on the positives, they can maintain a sense of optimism and hope for the future.
5) Plan surprises: Surprising your partner with thoughtful gestures can be a powerful way to show your affection and commitment. Whether it's sending care packages filled with treats from home or scheduling a surprise video chat, little moments of spontaneity can go a long way in keeping the romance alive. Surprise visits are also an option if the situation permits.
6) Use technology wisely: While communication is important, too much technology can actually hinder intimacy. Military couples should avoid over-communicating and make sure they take time apart to rest and recharge. They should also set boundaries around how often they check in with each other and try not to let technology replace real-life interaction.
7) Keep traditions alive: Traditions are an excellent way to maintain intimacy and trust during deployment. Military couples can continue celebrating holidays, anniversaries, and other special occasions by sending gifts, cards, or even cooking meals together via video chat. This will help keep the spark alive and ensure that their relationship remains strong despite the distance.
Deployments can put a strain on any relationship, but military couples who employ these strategies can maintain trust and intimacy despite the physical distance between them. By communicating openly, planning ahead, staying active, focusing on positivity, surprising each other, using technology wisely, and keeping traditions alive, they can weather the storm and emerge stronger than ever.
What strategies maintain trust and intimacy when communication is limited or disrupted during deployment?
In order to maintain trust and intimacy with their partners while deployed, military personnel may engage in regular communication using various methods such as video calls, phone calls, emails, letters, or social media platforms like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger. This helps to keep both parties connected emotionally even if they are physically apart. Military members can also build trust by being transparent about their experiences and sharing details of their daily lives to help their partner feel included in their life.