Improve these 3 things during Lent

Lent is a great time to think about things we can shift from good to great. It's a time of renewal and for many that means practicing penitent things such as fasting, alms giving, and confession.

But, there is a joyous aspect to Lent as well that not many are paying attention to. Renewal can also be practiced by improving things and that in and of itself can be exciting and fun.

But, how do we practice improving something? 

There is an avalanche of self help improvement information out there, and experts saying one thing and another saying another thing.

At the end of the day, we hunger for the best from ourselves and from each other. To break it down into the simplest of terms, if we want to give our family and friends (and strangers) the best, we should consistently do these 3 things:

1. Love

The impact of a person who loves consistently can last for generations. Tell the people you love that you love them often. For children, explain that you love them simply because they are your son or daughter. In addition to telling kids directly, try small but spontaneous acts of love, like leaving a note in your child’s locker at school or writing a message with a dry erase marker on his or her bathroom mirror. This works great with a spouse or significant other too!

Of course, love goes beyond just words. Being fair in your business dealings and following through on what you say lets people know they are valued. It also sets a standard for your own personal "brand".

2. Learn

Life keeps going and we must continually adapt as we grow and the world around us changes. We always should seek to keep learning. In fact, the choice not to keep learning puts us behind at an increasingly rapid rate. Consider the importance of staying up to date on the latest technology.

Keep learning. When we grow, we set a strong example. Our willingness to do so conveys that we notice and take interest in our lives and of those around us. Be teachable and engaged —one who is actively attached rather than detached.

3. Lead

Have awareness of how we are leading our families—both inside and outside the home. How we incorporate loving and learning are representative expressions of our leadership.

Leadership comes in many forms. Lead in the home through responsibility, finances, faith, and values.

Lead in the community through active engagement in your child’s school and community volunteering. Don’t take this for granted. Sometimes the most obvious and mundane tasks can be the most influential upon our friends and family.

Yes, we will fail.. Still, the things we do sets the right example for ourselves and for others. As we seek to grow in all three ways above, always keep this in your sights: the heart of your family and of your friends.

How can you continue to grow? Comment now below