We are officially now in the Lenten season. This is a time most Catholics give up something they regularly enjoy for the weeks leading up to Easter Sunday. It is supposed to be a sacrifice so most people will give up something like chocolate or coffee. But there are other more creative ways to better yourself during lent so here are some things you should really give up for lent.
Littering – This is something I think everyone should try to be more aware of and lent is the perfect time to try and kick this bad habit.
Procrastinating – This might be a little harder but will be worth it in the end and kicking this bad habit will last long after lent has ended. Swearing – I gave this up a few years ago and the first week was hard but it made me realize that I need to be more aware of what I say. Snapchatting Excessively – I gave this up last year when I went to a concert and realized I was watching the show through my phone screen. I stopped posting snapchat stories at concerts and parties and I became much more present with my friends and family and I didn’t miss updating every second of my life at all
Road Rage – It can be really easy to lose your temper on the road but try to keep in mind that someone cutting you off or switching lanes without using their blinker is not worth getting upset over.
Excessive Phone Use – Similar to Snapchatting, by putting down your phone every once in a while, and enjoying the company of the people you are with will bring you closer in ways you won’t expect.
Online Shopping – This is what I am giving up for lent this year and so far, it has NOT been easy but I know my wallet and I will be very happy if I am able to stick to it.
Being Judgmental – It’s easy to look at someone and automatically form an opinion about them but try and remember to not judge a book by its cover.
Another way to celebrate lent is picking up a good habit instead of ditching a bad one. Here are some things you might want to add to your life during lent.
Being a Better Listener – All too often we talk about our own problems and don’t listen enough. Making an effort to listen better to others will make your relationships with your friends and family stronger.
Giving Compliments More Freely – A simple compliment can go a long way and mentioning you like your friend’s outfit or telling the girl in your class her hair looks good can go a long way.
Random Acts of Kindness – This one is easy and it can make you feel better too. Pay for the person’s coffee behind you at Einstein’s, tell the Barone employees you appreciate them, send a hand written letter to your grandparent, when everyone around you is gossiping about someone be the one to butt in with something nice, talk to the shy person who’s sitting by themselves at a party. They are small things that can make a big difference.
Show More Gratitude – There are so many people in my life that I should thank more often than I do. My friends, my parents, my professors, my RA’s and my classmates. Taking the time to express your gratitude will make you and them feel great.
Volunteer/Donate – Volunteering is so rewarding and lent it the perfect time to start or continue to give back to your community. Campus ministry has tons of volunteer opportunities to get involved in. If you don’t have time to volunteer donating food, money or clothes is another great way to celebrate lent.
Go to Mass More– If you never go try going every week or every other week. If you go weekly, try going twice a week. If you can’t make it to mass, try taking some time out of your day for a moment of quiet reflection and prayer. Even just a few minutes a day can make an impact on your mood.