So, lent has come around again and I guess you’re all stuck on what to give up, so I’ve created a handy little list of what the modern student – like yourself – could, should but probably won’t, give up.
Netflix
Yes, I said it. As much as it pains me, Netflix is the top time waster. It even beats procrastination, which now I’ve mentioned, you should probably give up as well. It’s definitely one of the best 20th-century inventions, but there should be a limit on how many hours you can healthily watch in one day because I’m sure finishing an entire season (maybe an entire series for some of you) in a day, is way over the limit. We’ve all seen the memes about it, but I can comfortably say that I feel most uncomfortable when Netflix directly asks me if I’m still watching because I’ve been watching the same show for 6 hours straight with no breaks. Give it up.
Starbucks
As nice as a Starbucks coffee is on a morning, it is just a coffee. And it’s overpriced. As students, we shouldn’t be forking out on coffee that we’re only buying to try and keep us awake for that dreaded 9 am lecture. Instead, grab a cheap one from a local coffee shop, or competitor Pret-a-Manger serve filter coffee for just 99p, with organic milk. For that price, however, you can’t request a bigger cup – it really is one size fits all. Starbucks has got to go and besides, it’s not even pumpkin spice latte season.
Social Media
Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, Twitter – we may as well throw Tinder in there. Take a break from social media. Focus on the outside world, not the world inside of your phone. Go outside and actually meet new people, speak to them, get to know them. Get to know yourself. Use the break from social media as a period of self-reflection. Don’t compare yourself or your life to what you see on the screen. No one ever showcases the struggle, so don’t try to compete. Just be the best version of yourself.
Trebles
All us Northern students love a good Treble (maybe a bit too much). Trebles are probably the only drinks that offer such wild and colourful mixers. E numbers and vodka – what more could you ask for. But when was the last time you remembered a night out beyond the trebles? I think we can all agree, that they don’t actually taste that delightful, so why not let them slide. Trebles we love you, but we don’t need you – not for the next 40 days anyway!
So, there you have it. My list of what you should give up for lent and why. Of course, you don’t have to take my advice, but I’d be deeply offended if you didn’t. And I know I probably interrupted your Netflix marathon to breathe some words of wisdom, so I’ll let you get back to that now.