Lent: Five Ways To Keep Motivated

Starting today (Wednesday 2nd March), the Christian observance of Lent is often a prime time to give up something you usually enjoy in the run-up to easter- a perfect way to get back on track if you didn’t quite stick to your New Years resolutions.

Whilst many people often fast, there are no limits to what you choose, and popular options include chocolate, coffee, meat, alcohol, smoking, and social media.

So, if you are thinking of setting yourself the challenge but aren’t sure if you will be able to last the full 40 day period, the team at Essential Living has shared their five tips to help keep you motivated.

Set realistic goals

Pledging to give up your favourite food you know you will struggle without is a huge challenge, and maybe not a good idea if you want to successfully complete the journey.

Try to strive for a goal that is attainable. For example, if you find yourself spending hours and hours a day on your phone, limit your scrolling time to one hour a day.

Lent is not all about going cold turkey on something.

Be persistent and patient

Sticking to your goals will also benefit you in the long run. Experts say it takes about 21 days for a new activity to become a habit and six months for it to become part of your everyday life.

So whilst the first week or two may be really tough, it is important to stay persistent and patient as it will slowly get easier and part of your normal routine.

Short-term goals

Short-term goals are much easier to keep, and every small accomplishment will help keep you motivated - this is why lent is the perfect time to jump back on those lost new year's resolutions!

Keeping track of the small steps you achieve will also help you here, like keeping a food journal, or social media limit apps.

You may find yourself keeping to this adjusted lifestyle after the lent period is over.

Reward yourself

It is extremely important to reward yourself for every small achievement you make.

Many people may not know that lent technically lasts for 40 days, but it does not include Sundays, according to the calendar, meaning the season is 46 days long overall.

Whilst self-discipline is important, if you feel you can afford to reward yourself every Sunday during this period, then do so. By using this reward scheme you are also setting yourself up for more regular achievements.

Be vocal

Finally, talk to others about your goals and don’t keep them a secret. Telling friends and family members will help them realise and understand why you may not be going on a certain night out or eating a takeaway at the weekend.

Ideally, they will be able to support your resolution to change yourself for the better or improve your health. Even better, find someone else who also has the same goals as you and be each other’s motivators.

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