This Easter, many people across the UK will be taking up the Lent traditions and giving up a favourite treat or bad habit. Running from Ash Wednesday to the night before Easter, this occasion is celebrated by the religious and non-religious alike, with people looking to improve their lifestyle for the coming spring.

If you are giving up something for Lent in 2013, here is a handy guide to help keep you on the straight and narrow this Easter.

Choose something that is reasonable – There is no point picking something to give up that you just can’t live without.  If you use your phone for work then there is little point trying to give up time spent on the phone. Choose something that you know is achievable – this way you are more likely to succeed and still make a positive change in your life.

Give up with a friend – This is a fantastic way to give your resolve a boost. Giving up something with a friend means that you always have something there to offer support and cheer you on. Plus you have the added motivation of ensuring your friend keeps to their resolution as well.

Make small daily goals to strive to – Set a daily goal to achieve, such as a target for spending time with the family, or a chart detailing the progress you have made that day. If you are giving something up like chocolate, why not get a calendar and tick off every day you go without? Or if your resolution is to do something new each day, make a chart that shows off your progress for everyone to see.

Remind yourself why you are doing it – Pop little reminders around your home giving you a mini-pep talk everywhere you go. If you are trying to get fit or lost weight, a few post-it notes reminding you of your target goal will do wonders for your motivation.

Let your friends and family know – It is hard to go it alone, so let your friends and family know what you are giving up or trying to achieve and benefit from their support. Your loved ones are less likely to offer you a chocolate biscuit or fizzy drink if they know you are trying to give them up.

Ask for help – There is no shame is getting some extra help if you are trying to give up a habit such as smoking. There are a number of plans available these days to help you quit, as well as medical aids such as electronic cigarettes. The NHS and devices such as Ecig Wizard can help you kick the habit – not just for Lent but permanently.