Lent is often associated with giving up chocolate, caffeine, or social media. But what if, instead of just giving something up, you used these 40 days to form new habits that could make your life and business more organised, efficient, and stress-free? Whether you choose to let go of unhelpful habits or commit to a positive change, Lent can be a great opportunity to reset and refocus.
A few years ago, for a couple of years, I did the 40 things (items) in 40 days challenge. That is a decluttering challenge that lasts for the 40 days of Lent, in which you commit to removing 40 items of household clutter within the period. It was my journey to decluttering our family home, before I later used a professional declutterer to help me.
I’m not saying my house is now completely clutter free, that is never going to happen, but it is a relief to have decluttered some of the worst areas of the house, including the garage, the loft and the spare bedroom.
But back to my blog post, where we look at forming new habits in your life/business. Here are some productivity-focused ideas for what you might give up—or commit to—for 40 days.
What to Give Up for Lent (to Boost Productivity and Focus)
- Multi-tasking – It might feel like you’re getting more done, but switching between tasks actually reduces efficiency. Try single-tasking for 40 days and notice the difference in focus and quality of work.
- Checking Emails Constantly – Instead of responding to every email as it comes in, set specific times in the day to check and reply to emails. You’ll save time and feel less overwhelmed.
- Endless Scrolling on Social Media – Set limits on your social media use and redirect that time towards something more productive, like professional development or even just a proper lunch break.
- Overloading Your To-Do List – Instead of cramming every possible task into your daily list, focus on your top three priorities each day. Quality over quantity!
- Procrastination – If there’s a task you’ve been avoiding, tackle it head-on for the next 40 days. Set a timer and commit to at least 15 minutes of focused work each day to build momentum.
- Unnecessary Meetings – Can it be an email instead? Challenge yourself to only attend or schedule meetings that have a clear agenda and purpose.
What to Commit to for Lent (to Improve Your Workflow and Wellbeing)
- Daily Decluttering – Spend just 5–10 minutes each day clearing your workspace, digital files, or inbox. A tidy space leads to a tidy mind!
- Using Time Blocks – Structure your day into focused work periods with short breaks. The Pomodoro Technique (25 minutes of work, 5-minute breaks) is a great place to start.
- Prioritising Self-Care – Your productivity is directly linked to your wellbeing. Commit to getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, and taking breaks away from your screen.
- Automating or Delegating One Task Per Week – Whether it’s setting up email filters, automating invoices, or outsourcing admin work to a virtual assistant (like Oyster Flame), look for small ways to lighten your workload.
- A ‘No Work After 8 PM’ Rule – Protect your downtime by setting a boundary around work hours. If 8 PM doesn’t work for you, set your own rule and stick to it.
- Daily Reflection – At the end of each day, take five minutes to review what went well and what you could improve. Small adjustments add up over time!
Additional Suggestions:
- Digital Detox Challenge – Set a rule for 40 days, such as ‘no screens 30 minutes before bed’ or ‘only checking social media once a day.’
- Inbox Zero Fridays – Dedicate one day a week to fully clearing your inbox so you start fresh each Monday.
- 15-Minute Power Sessions – Each day, commit to tackling a task you’ve been avoiding for just 15 minutes. Small steps lead to big progress!
- Gratitude Journaling – Each day, write down one thing you’re grateful for in your work or business. This helps shift your mindset towards positivity and motivation.
- Accountability Buddy – Find a colleague or friend to check in with about your Lent commitment. It’s easier to stay on track when someone else is involved!
Make It Stick with Habit Stacking
Want to make your Lent commitment easier to maintain? Try habit stacking—pairing your new habit with something you already do daily. For example:
- While drinking your morning coffee, spend five minutes reviewing your top three priorities for the day.
- After your daily email check-in, spend two minutes decluttering your inbox.
- When you finish a meeting, take a moment to reflect and write down one key takeaway.
- Before you log off for the day, tidy up your desk for a fresh start tomorrow.
Small, intentional pairings make new habits easier to remember and sustain!
Challenge Yourself to a More Organised You
Lent is about discipline and growth, and by making mindful choices about what you give up or commit to, you can create lasting positive changes. Whether you take on one challenge or a few, 40 days is the perfect timeframe to build habits that stick.
Will you be giving something up or committing to something new this Lent? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear your plans!
