How to Live Away from Loved Ones

     I am very fortunate to only be a Skype call away from my family and friends, and understand that many people aren't as blessed. Whether they are poverty stricken, in the military or in any other difficult situation I truly feel for anyone in this predicament. Sometimes this may feel like a first world problem because we do live in a time when the world can be explored within a 24 hour plane ride, but living this reality has taught me it is only a transitioning problem. Yes my mail may be air carried and take two weeks to arrive and maybe seeing my family isn't an 8 week boat trip arriving on Ellis Island but it is still difficult to be away from family. 
     I try to push any concerns to the back of my mind. Trust me if I let my anxiety have it's way my pictures would be like the before and after shots of president Lincoln. Common stresses revolve around tragedy and what if's... Could I get there in time? What if the flights are booked? What if we can't afford the journey? None of these situations matter because they haven't happened and stressing about them won't make them less likely to happen. That is the first key to living away from home.
     The second is to have a solid reason for being away. Fighting for freedom, earning an income, being with your partner. These are all great and valid reasons for being away from home and having a strong reason will anchor you in your decision. Whenever I feel like giving in and going home I look at my partner and realize that it is worth it.
     Thirdly, stop thinking that everything has changed. There may be a few new stores, maybe your nephew has grown five inches since you last saw him but people change and things happen. Whether you were there to experience it or not people grow up, buildings fall down and life moves on. Romanticizing your old life isn't going to change your current situation, which brings me to my next point.
     Create your own life. Maybe this is a friend circle or a work routine but create a life where happiness can grow. For me it is adventure and building my relationship. Being in a new country means that everything is new and exciting. No it isn't always fun but taking my camera along for the journey makes it worth capturing! It's important to log off Facebook, step away from the timeline photos and live your own life.
     Lastly, visit home. Keep in touch with your family, remember birthdays. This will help you feel connected. You may not be in the photographic evidence but you will still be in your loved ones hearts. I hope this post helped you, good luck!