Each Ramadan is a new chance for you to reflect on your deeds and strive to become a better person, which is exactly what 96% of professionals across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) claimed they do, according to the Bayt.com ‘Ramadan in the MENA Workplace‘ poll, June 2016.
Our Prophet’s Sunnah is full of lessons that can help us become better persons, and I am here to share 5 things you can do today to improve yourself and make the best of Ramadan.
Did you know that Prophet Mohammed used to break his fast with dates and water before going to prayer? On the other hand, you see each one of us spending more and more money on foods and beverages in Ramadan than any other month of the year! Remember that not only does too much food affect your concentration after Iftar, it’s also bad for your health! Make sure you buy, cook and eat as much as you need without going overboard!
More and more people start slacking at work in Ramadan and they blame Ramadan for their low energy! This goes against the fact that the history of Islam recounts how our ancestors carried out some of their greatest conquests, such as the battles of Badr and Tabouk, during the holy month of Ramadan. Lesson to learn: Even the hardest of tasks can be done while fasting if you do it smartly.
The wisdom behind fasting is to show solidarity with the poor and less fortunate, making Ramadan the month of giving and charity. Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) was known for his generosity all year long, but he was most generous in Ramadan. Following his steps, make sure you give for those in need, because as we are feeling thirsty and hungry during fasting hours, remember they may still feel it even after!
Ramadan is an opportunity to repent to Allah and carry out good deeds, and Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) has warned us not to miss the opportunity we are given every year to do so. Make the most of this month: devote your time and effort to worshiping god, giving back and helping others!
Ramadan is the month of patience, and fasting is the best teacher! You may fast for more than 15 hours a day, enduring hot weather, thirst and hunger. The greatest thing you can add to this is patience. We need to have patience at all times and in all situations; have patience when your endurance and health is tested, have patience when you resist foods and temptations, and have patience when your are met with challenges and difficult people or situations.
