As most collegiettes know, Lent started last week with Ash Wednesday. It’s traditional to give up something during these forty days leading up to Easter. In our busy lives full of classes, meetings, and studying it can be good to take time to identify our not so great habits and decide to give something up for Lent. If you’re still struggling to come up with something, here are a few ideas.
1. Sweets
I bet I’m not the only one with an excess of chocolates and assorted candies around my apartment after those sweet post-Valentine’s day sales. Candy can become addicting, especially with the stress of midterms around the corner, so instead of loading up on sweets, give them up for Lent and turn towards healthier options.
2. Social Media
We live in a world where our every move is documented and all spare time is spent on social media. I’m definitely guilty of turning towards Instagram while waiting for the bus. This month, take a break from social media (all of it or even just one) and use the time usually spent scrolling to take up a new hobby or just take in your surroundings.
3. Gossip
It can be easy, in the lull of a conversation, to casually say to a friend, “Have you heard what happened to so-and-so this weekend?” A refreshing idea for Lent is to give up gossiping about others, especially in regards to situations we don’t know much about. Instead, focus on the person you’re talking to and ask them questions about how they’re doing or for advice on something you might be dealing with. You’ll become much closer to your besties that way than speculating over what an acquaintance did on Friday night.
4. Caffeinated Drinks
As busy college coeds, it’s easy to lose out on sleep and need a little (or big) pick-me-up throughout the day. If you think you might be getting a little too attached to that midday coffee, maybe take Lent as a time to give it up. Instead, try to get to bed earlier and drink more water and save the money usually spent to buy something you’ve had your eye on, or even donate to HuskyTHON!
5. Makeup
I love trying out new products and makeup tricks but some days, layering on that makeup in the morning just proves to be a hassle. This Lent, a good idea could be giving up makeup. It might open up your eyes to how much society relies on mascara and a bold lip. It’ll also give you some extra snooze time in the morning!
6. Instead of giving somethin up, take something up
One of my favorite ideas for Lent is actually not to give up anything at all, but to take on something. This could be making time to call your mom everyday, leaving sweet notes for your roomies, or donating to a cause close to your heart. Lent doesn’t have to be all about sacrifice, it can be about spreading the love!