Even if you do not perform ANY recommended act of worship and you just stick to the minimum of fasting and praying your 5 daily prayers, you are unconsciously rewarded.
Even if you do not perform ANY recommended act of worship and you just stick to the minimum of fasting and praying your 5 daily prayers, you are unconsciously rewarded.
When the month of Ramadan kick starts and people are found sharing planners and ambitious checklists of recommended a’mal left, right and centre, it is easy to get overwhelmed despite our own planning, and to feel that you will not be able to benefit from this month as much as others might give the impression they would.
Mental health has also never been a bigger issue than today. When we hear scholars repeating that “time is running out, make the most of this month!”, it can leave very different impacts on listeners. Some might feel more energised and pumped up, while others might get stressed out and outright demotivated. Therefore I thought I would write down 5 important reminders, not just for myself but for anyone who might potentially feel a bit low.
1. Even if you do not perform ANY recommended act of worship and you just stick to the minimum of fasting and praying your 5 daily prayers, you are unconsciously rewarded.
Every obligatory prayer is worth 70 prayers in this month, and even your sleep counts as ‘ibadah! So you are still winning points regardless. Also, remember that the term “‘ibādah” doesn’t exclusively refer to Qur’an and namaaz. Simply spending quality time with your family is ‘ibādah too. So is putting on some ether before you hit that prayer mat (yes, it can be that simple!)
2. Intention is everything.
Remember, your simple desire of wanting to do a recommended action is always rewarded by Allah (swt), regardless of whether you act upon it or not. This is the amount of love and mercy He has for us!
3. Do not feel the pressure of finishing the entire Qur’an or performing an x amount of a’mal daily.
Remember that if your heart isn’t present while you do these, your soul will not be able to reap the same benefits as it would if you were happily doing them. Your reason has to come from the right place, not from a place of keeping your family/society content. Quality over quantity, always.
4. There’s no such thing as a “small” achievement.
If you are for example someone who usually struggles to wake up everyday for Fajr but you manage to set a routine during this month, you’d have won. Do not feel ashamed to set small, achievable targets for yourself. Even one achievement this month is amazing!
5. Be kind to yourself and don’t compare yourself to others.
Each person is at a different stage in their spiritual journey. Allah (swt) is all-seeing and all-knowing. He knows about your struggle(s), and you do not owe explanations to anyone.
Ramadan Mubarak to all of you!
