When we think of the most successful people in society, one of the first things we tend to explore is their daily habits. This curiosity often stems from a desire to emulate their success by adopting their routines.
Social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok are filled with trends showcasing the “ideal” lifestyle—waking up at 5 a.m., hitting the gym, excelling at work, maintaining meaningful relationships, and pursuing side hustles, all while finding time for personal growth and spirituality.
While these posts can inspire, they can also leave us feeling overwhelmed or inadequate, questioning whether we’re doing enough.
At Riwaya, we believe in achieving balance and pushing towards meaningful goals. For this, we need not only inspiration but also practical strategies rooted in a timeless and proven model: the Prophetic lifestyle.
Let’s explore how we can align our routines for productivity while drawing wisdom from the life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
The Pitfall of Comparison
The first step towards a productive and fulfilling life is avoiding the trap of comparison. What we see online is often a polished snippet, not the full picture. Everyone’s circumstances are different, shaped by unique responsibilities and challenges. Don’t compare your full picture to someone else’s highlight reel.
Take a moment to reflect on your own blessings. Gratitude helps us focus on what we have rather than what we think we lack. Allah reminds us in the Quran:
"If you are grateful, I will certainly give you more."
(Quran 14:7)
By practising gratitude, we shift our mindset from one of scarcity to abundance, enabling us to make the most of what we already have.
Feeling overwhelmed by comparison? Manage stress and anxiety with meaningful duas. Read our blog to discover how they can bring peace and calm to your life!
Taking Inspiration from Success
One of the most consistent habits among successful individuals is waking up early. It is a trait often highlighted in personal development books and shared by countless high achievers. Interestingly, this practice is also deeply rooted in Islamic teachings, providing both spiritual and practical benefits.
For Muslims, the Fajr prayer is a prime example of the emphasis on starting the day early. This pre-dawn prayer sets the tone for the day, fostering a sense of discipline, mindfulness, and connection with Allah.
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
"O Allah, bless my nation early in the morning."
(Sunan Ibn Majah 2238)
The morning holds immense blessings, whether it’s for work, prayer, or personal reflection. Starting your day early gives you quiet, focused time to plan and act.
If you’re not a morning person, try adjusting your routine gradually. Even an additional 15 minutes each day can create a noticeable difference in your productivity over time.
Structuring Your Day
The life of the Prophet (PBUH) exemplified balance. He allocated time for prayer, family, work, and rest. This harmony ensured that each aspect of his life received its due attention.
Creating a balanced routine doesn’t require overhauling your life overnight. Start small by mapping out your day and prioritising manageable goals.
Practical Tips to Build Balance
a. Set a Schedule: Use tools like Notion or even a simple Excel sheet to outline your day.
b. Prioritise Consistency: A routine only works if you stick to it. Begin with a simple structure and gradually add detail as it becomes a habit.
c. Include Breaks: Overloading your schedule can lead to burnout. Ensure there’s time to recharge.
Visit Riwaya and explore planners designed to help you organise your day and boost productivity effortlessly.
The Power of Intentions
Every action in a Muslim’s life can become an act of worship if the intention behind it is aligned with Allah’s pleasure. Whether it’s excelling at work, caring for family, or engaging in prayer, having a clear intention provides purpose and motivation.
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
"The deeds are considered by the intentions, and a person will get the reward according to his intention.”
(Sahih Bukhari)
When you find yourself feeling unmotivated or distracted, reconnect with your intentions. Reflect on why you’re doing what you’re doing and how it contributes to your larger goals in both this life and the Hereafter.
Maintaining Consistency: A Prophetic Trait
Abu Hurairah narrated that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said:
“Take on only as much as you can do of good deeds, for the best of deeds is that which is done consistently, even if it is little.”
This teaches us that it’s better to take small, manageable steps consistently rather than overburdening ourselves with grand plans that we can’t sustain.
Start by incorporating one new habit into your routine—perhaps waking up 10 minutes earlier for Fajr or dedicating five minutes to recite the Quran daily. Over time, these small habits will accumulate and bring significant positive changes.
Overcoming Distractions
Modern life is filled with distractions, from constant notifications to endless to-do lists. To stay focused, try these strategies:
1. Limit Screen Time: Allocate specific times for social media and stick to them.
2. Create a Dedicated Workspace: If possible, have a space where you can concentrate without interruptions.
3. Practice Mindfulness: Before starting a task, take a moment to centre yourself and make dua for barakah in your efforts.
Redefining Success Through Simplicity
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) lived a life of simplicity, teaching us that true success is not measured by material possessions but by our connection with Allah and the goodness we bring to society. His happiness and fulfilment were rooted in his unwavering faith, his service to others, and his gratitude for the blessings in his life.
In today’s world, success is often equated with having the biggest house, the latest car, or a luxurious lifestyle. Yet, the Prophet (PBUH) showed us that success lies in things far more meaningful—having a peaceful home to return to, being surrounded by family who love and support you, and enjoying a meal with gratitude.
True success is having the time to worship and pray to Allah, to reflect on His blessings, and to express thankfulness for them. It’s about finding joy in the small, yet profound, moments of life. A home filled with peace, a heart full of love, and a soul connected to Allah—this is the essence of a successful and fulfilling life.
By aligning our priorities with these principles, we can redefine what success means for us. Start by simplifying your life, focusing on gratitude, and using your time and energy to benefit others. Trust in Allah’s plan, and you will find contentment and barakah in both your worldly and spiritual pursuits.
Productivity Tips for Muslims
Achieving a productive lifestyle doesn’t require drastic changes. Instead, focus on small, consistent actions that align with your goals. Here are some practical tips:
1. Set Clear Goals: Write down what you want to achieve and break it into smaller, actionable steps.
2. Incorporate Spirituality: Begin and end your day with prayer, and find moments to remember Allah throughout your tasks.
3. Use Your Time Wisely: Reflect on how you spend your time daily. Are there activities that could be replaced with something more meaningful?
4. Stay Organised: Whether it’s a physical planner or a digital app, having a clear overview of your tasks can keep you on track.
Conclusion
Productivity isn’t about achieving a perfectly curated life; it’s about finding balance, staying consistent, and aligning your actions with meaningful intentions. By taking inspiration from the Prophetic lifestyle, we learn that success comes from prioritising what truly matters—spirituality, family, work, and self-care—all while staying grounded in gratitude and simplicity.
Remember, small steps done consistently bring lasting results. Start by making manageable changes to your routine, seek barakah in your efforts, and trust in Allah to guide you. True productivity isn’t measured by how much you do but by how meaningful your actions are. So, take the first step today and create a life that reflects purpose, balance, and blessings.
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