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It is advisable that we try and take some days off during the month of Ramadan especially during the last 10 days, so that we can devote some time exclusively for Allah. However, this may not be possible for all of us. For those that will be working, we will list some practical steps which if followed, will Insha’Allah allow us to make the most of the time available.
1. Time Management
The key to time management is to devise a structured timetable, which if adhered to, will result in a person making maximum use of time available. Each person must outline the time dedicated to various acts of worship such as the recitation of the Qur’an, dhikr and salaah. Targets should be set which are challenging but achievable.
2. Don’t Miss Suhoor
The fasting person’s day should begin with Suhur (pre-dawn meal). Not only is this a rewarding Sunnah, but it will allow for physical strength, particularly important in these long fasts. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) has said:
“Eat suhoor, for in suhoor there is blessing.” Sahih Muslim
A person should try to wake up 15 minutes before Suhur in order to pray Tahajjud salaah albeit only 2 rakaats. Du’a should also be made during this time, as the last portion of the night is a time of acceptance. One should use the time between Suhur and Fajr to recite the Qur’an. If a person recites only 21 verses before and after every salaah, then Insha’Allah, they will finish one Qur’an throughout the month. After Suhur, one must pay particular attention to the fact that Fajr salaah is performed with congregation.
3. Make the Most of Your Commute
During the day, a person must be mindful of utilising every moment. This starts on the journey to work. Most people will easily spend up to an hour on journeys to and from work. This provides a great opportunity to do dhikr and to recite or listen to the Qur’an. At the same time, one should be mindful of refraining from the disobedience of Allah, with a particular emphasis on controlling one’s gaze. This can be achieved simply by reading the Qur’an or any other beneficial literature. The same routine should be practiced on the return journey.
4. Take Some Time Out for Allah
If the work location is situated close to a Masjid, then it is advisable that a person preforms his salaah in the Masjid during the lunch break. This also provides an opportunity to rest for a while, keeping you refreshed and active for the rest of the day. As there is no need to worry about lunch, this time should be used for reciting the Qur’an. If it is not possible to go to the masjid, then one should try to identify an area within the workplace suitable for worship, and encourage Muslim colleagues to also attend the prayer. This time should not be wasted in idle talk or on social media.
5. Help at Home
Once a person gets home, one should rest for a short while and assist in the preparations of Iftar. There is much reward to be attained by undertaking such activities, as the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) himself would assist in various household tasks. Care should be taken to free oneself from these activities 10-15 minutes before Iftar for supplication. Family members should aslo be encouraged to do the same. One should ask Allah to accept their fast as well as supplicating for all of one’s needs and necessities to the All Hearing Lord.
The advice above provides a simple formula to increase productivity throughout the month. A concerted effort should be made to implement this timetable on a daily basis and achieve any targets set. The messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) has said:
“The best of actions in the sight of Allah are those that are continuous even if they be little”. Sahih Muslim
So whatever acts you do, be sure they are consistent and continuous throughout the month.
By Students of Imam Zakariya Academy
