4 Ways To Manage Your Time & Stay Motivated During Ramadan
Ramadan is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar. It is a month of reflection, combatting our desires and instilling self-discipline.
During this month, the Qu’ran, was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and therefore, there is an extra emphasis placed on reciting the Qu’ran at this time.
Muslims fast during the month of Ramadan, meaning we are not allowed to eat or drink from sunrise to sunset. As a result, many muslims, including myself, struggle to focus and stay motivated due to a lack in energy and brain power from the absence of food and drink.
I am by no means an expert but these 4 techniques have improved my focus and time management during this month and inshallah it can help you too.
1. Plan your day after Maghrib
Brain power is very limited during ramadan and therefore we need to optimise it as every little bit counts. When I wake up after Sehri/Suhoor it can be really difficult to find the motivation to meet deadlines and be productive.
Therefore, I try to avoid using any brain power to make decisions about what I need to do, by planning the day after Maghrib (when you break your fast) the day before.
It can even be after Isha, just once you have broken your fast, prayed, and have a lot more energy. Use that energy to plan the next day when you know you’re going to be a lot more tired and less bothered.
2. Work with your body, not against it
In Junaid Ur-Rehman’s latest YouTube video, he talks about this concept and being able to know your ‘power hours’.
Your energy, motivation, and will-to-work ‘dips’ as the day progresses. I have the most energy from 3pm–6pm. The work with the most priority would get done to its best capability when you have the most energy.
My ‘power hours’ may differ from yours so I recommend taking the first few days of Ramadan to experiment and find your ideal times.
3. Leave the house
It would be so unhealthy to stay indoors and be a robot when you lose motivation. During a slump, try taking a walk, relax with the family or even take a power nap for 10 to 20 minutes.
You shouldn’t feel guilty for napping or ‘wasting’ time because this all contributes to doing more later on. Fasting isn’t easy so your body will need time to adapt to the change in routine.
4. Make D’ua
Allah (swt) says: “Take one step towards me, I will take ten steps towards you. Walk towards me, I will run towards you.”
Fasting whilst trying to maintain a healthy work-life balance can be really difficult. However, finding peace through Salah and D’ua means Allah will make it easier for you and take your mind off temptations as you strengthen your Taqwa (relationship with God).
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), said: “When the month of Ramadan begins, the gates of the heaven are opened; the gates of Hell-fire are closed, and the devils are chained.”
Have a great week & blessed Ramadan!
Abdullah
