Sort:  

I think giving something up becomes more meaningful when it creates space for something better.

Right. If removing one habit gives you more time, focus, money, or peace, then the sacrifice has a practical purpose beyond simply testing your willpower.

Sometimes you also discover how much of your routine was automatic. You only notice the dependence after you stop doing the thing.

And that can be uncomfortable because you suddenly have to ask whether you were choosing the habit or the habit was choosing for you.