Self Development with an Islamic approach
Written by : Ms. Camall Saïb. A
The age of technological development is upon us, our youths must utilize this source of knowledge as a powerful tool.
Narrated by Abu Huraira (May Allah be pleased with him) reported :
The Prophet has said, “Religion is very easy and whoever overburdens himself in his religion will not be able to continue in that way. So you should not be extremists, but try to be near to perfection and receive the good tidings that you will be rewarded; and gain strength by worshipping in the mornings, the nights.” (See Fath-ul-Bari, Page 102, Vol 1). – Sahih Bukhari
The above Hadith supports the idea that Islam is easy to follow, however, people tend to overcomplicate matters. Often, youngsters complain of their hardship in maintaining a healthy Islamic lifestyle in today’s busy westernized society. Self-fulfillment and Cognitive happiness take various shapes depending on the pillars they stand on. While social media with all of its vices may offer you an enticing idea of what is self-development, this post will offer you a new idea of self- development that will keep your soul and body fulfilled.
1. Developing Our Minds Beyond Limit
Narrated by Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported:
The Messenger of Allah (SWT) has said, “The world, with all that it contains, is accursed except for the remembrance of Allah that which pleases Allah; and the religious schools and seekers of
knowledge.”
— At- Tirmidhi, Riyad as-Salihin Book 13, Hadith 9
We are taught to go about seeking knowledge that will be beneficial to us. In a time where information is at the tip of our fingers, Ignorance is a choice. Finding the truth is one Google search away…
Sheikhs such as Sheikh Assim Al-Hakeem, Mufti Menk, and Zakir Naik all have engaging social media platforms where they answer queries and doubts amongst the Ummah.
Looking beyond Islamic knowledge, one must cultivate his mind to expand his vision, to not blindly accept information from anywhere. Moreover, having a good level of education can help a person on many levels such as :
- Financial Independence and a Debt-Free Life.
- Being blessed with financial wealth to give back to those less fortunate.
- Making informed decisions when it comes to life instances. ( Using Ijtihaad
2. Develop Healthy Habits and Physical Health
Beyond mere physicality, a healthy body is seen as a trust from Allah, requiring stewardship and care. By adhering to a balanced lifestyle encompassing proper nutrition, regular exercise, and adequate rest, Muslims uphold the principle of holistic well-being advocated by Islam. A sound body fosters mental clarity, spiritual strength, and the capacity to serve others, thereby contributing positively to society. Ultimately, a healthy body serves as a vessel for fulfilling one’s purpose in life and worshipping the Creator. During the time of the Holy Prophet (SAW), he and his companions kept themselves fit for the battles to come.While injuries and diseases may be beyond our control, we can take proactive measures to maintain our physical well-being and prevent certain illnesses. It is our duty as Muslims to uphold the vessel that Allah has blessed us with.
Therefore, one must agree that a good diet and regular physical activities are a must. Self-development entails embracing, safeguarding, and nurturing all the assets bestowed upon us by God. It is imperative to acknowledge Allah’s blessings and to utilise them to evolve into the finest versions of ourselves.
3. Discipline in Life
Excessiveness in any aspect of life can be harmful. While perfection may be mastered, it does not mean to be without flaws. Perfection for a human being refers to accepting failure and learning from it. Influencers, Pop Stars, and Social Gurus often portray discipline as a strict lifestyle including, getting up at 3, having multiple businesses, and becoming a millionaire in your 20s
However, discipline is not only having a schedule which you adhere to but also knowing that after being sick or taking a week’s holiday you can pick up the pace just as before. Habits are to be cultivated to form muscle memory in your brain.
If a person is able to get up every day in Ramadhan to eat Sehri and pray fajr, it only demonstrates that when a greater force (divine obligation bestowed by Allah) is applied to the human brain, the conundrum of habit creation is proven to be attainable.
In the same way, if a young adult is trying to become successful in any aspect of life, then he should try creating a list of habits he would like to take on and slowly implement them in his daily routine.
Using the best guidelines we have ; Salaah. building routines around obligation allows us to persevere in life. For instance: we may use our 5 daily prayers to establish the best routine already laid by Allah.
Self-development is not achieved overnight. It is important to remember that Allah loves a person who keeps trying as He never gives up on anyone. Our guidelines to roam this earth were set in the best form by our creator, learning the Quran and Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (SAW) eases this journey for everyone. May Allah guide us all.
Ameen.
Sources :
