Lent is a 40-day period of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving that begins on 22 February (Ash Wednesday) and ends at sundown on Holy Thursday (April 6). Many Christians around the world are observing Lent and giving up many things, especially food. Most notable is meat, as there is already a Catholic tradition of abstaining from food on Fridays during Lent. Since the season is also about reflection and self-discipline, some will avoid meat entirely, or give up not-so-great habits like scrolling on Instagram, online shopping, and drinking soda. Of course, giving up these things is easier said than done.
We can decide many things to give up in Lent, but it is very hard to stick to them. Here are some of the most common ideas, as well as a few of the hardest habits to break.
- Listening to Music in the Car
While traveling, you can take uninterrupted time putting off your music system in the car. Quiet time can be used to grow closer to God through prayer and mindful reflection.
2. Complaining
Complaining is a congenital thing in the world. You may have a stressful work day. It can be hard not to fall into a cycle of complaining to release some steam. And while venting can help you move forward, try to avoid unnecessary complaining during Lent. Instead of looking for instances to complain about, search for what you are grateful for.
3. Clutter
A cleaned house is the best way to observe Lent in a spiritual way. You can clean everything on a special routine basis rather than leaving dirty dishes in the sink, clean laundry in the basket or last week’s newspaper on the kitchen counter, and stay on top of the clutter in your home. You can get the whole family involved by assigning out tasks and playing some music in the background to make chore time fly by.
4. Avoiding Reading
You might have a New Year’s resolution to reach your Goodreads Goal in 2023, making time to read more during Lent (and beyond) is always a good idea. Put down your phone after dinner and pick up a book of stories that include the life of Saints, autobiographies of Saints, or the book of essays you’ve been wanting to read.
5. Online Shopping
Pause a moment before you are making an online shop about whether the thing is really needed for you right now. Keep the item in your shopping cart for a day or two, then make your decision. Chances are, you can go without it — for Lent, at least!
6. Biting Your Nails
If you’re one of the 20 to 30% of people who bite their nails, use the next 40 days to kick this bad habit to the curb. Once you identify your triggers, you’ll be able to come up with a solution that works for you, whether it’s splurging on a fresh mani or coating your nails with a special deterrent polish.
7. Using Your Phone at Dinner
Many of you have a habit f scrolling through your phone having dinner. But even if you’re eating by yourself, putting down your phone can help you enjoy your meal more.
8. Not Catching up With Loved Ones
During the daily grind, it’s easy to not check in on the ones we love. Take time every day to send someone you care about a quick text or give them a call to make sure they’re doing okay.
9. Not Offering Forgiveness
Forgiving one’s mistakes is one of the hardest things to do. But offering forgiveness to someone who has hurt you can do wonders for not just them, but also you. And it’s equally important you’re forgiving yourself, too.
10. Fast Food
You know fast food is bad for you — but it’s often the easiest option on busy days. Try replacing fast food with a delicious home-cooked meal. If you’re on the go, pack a healthy protein bar to reach for instead.