Without definite plans for this holy season, many graces will be squandered and lost! The laws of fast and abstinence imposed by the Church bind under pain of sin, but we should all take extra things upon ourselves. Here are some ideas, not only as to what to give up, but what to also do during this special season of the Church year:
Things you could give up for Lent:
Programs from radio and other media
Social Media and networking like Facebook
Favorite foods (pizza, ice cream, etc.)
Computer use/gaming and blogging
Eating out at restaurants
Procrastination
Alcohol
Use of makeup
Soft drinks/caffeine/coffee
Smoking
Parties and celebrations
Working overtime unnecessarily
Other activities that tend to be addictive for you
Certain books/magazines (read instead ones that will help you grow spiritually)
Things to add during Lent:
Going to Mass more than once a week, getting up earlier to do so
Praying extra Rosaries (in addition to daily Rosary)
Meditation on the Sufferings of Our Lord and Our Lady
Attending weekly Stations of the Cross
More time for personal and family prayer / silent time
Going to Confession more often
Volunteering
Works of Mercy, both Spiritual and Corporal
Making a greater effort to budget / Tithing