Top Ten Things You Need To Do As A Muslim in 2024

Welcome to 2024, a year brimming with possibilities and opportunities for personal and spiritual growth. As Muslims, we stand at the threshold of this new year, poised to embrace the challenges and joys that lie ahead. This is more than just a time for setting goals; it’s a period for deep reflection, renewed faith, and meaningful action. In the spirit of growth and self-improvement, I invite you to explore these top ten essential practices that every Muslim should consider integrating into their lives this year. These practices are not just routine tasks; they are gateways to a deeper understanding of our faith and ourselves. Let’s embark on this transformative journey together, discovering how we can align our daily lives with our cherished Islamic values and principles.

Top 10 Things To Do As A Muslim In 2024

1. Slow Down

The modern world is a whirlwind of activity, but Islam teaches the importance of reflection and patience. Slowing down means taking the time each day to disconnect from the hustle and bustle. For example, spend a quiet moment after Fajr (dawn prayer) to contemplate the day ahead, or take a peaceful walk after Maghrib (sunset prayer) to reflect on the day’s events. This practice helps in grounding your thoughts and enhancing your spiritual connection.

2. Ask for Hidayat (Guidance) from Allah

Constantly seeking guidance through prayer, such as Istikhara, helps in making decisions aligned with your faith. When faced with a tough choice, whether it’s career-related or personal, perform Istikhara and seek Allah’s guidance. This could be as simple as asking for clarity in choosing between two job offers, ensuring that your decision is both beneficial for your worldly life and your hereafter.

3. Sell Yourself Properly

This involves presenting your true self in various aspects of life. For example, in a job interview, articulate your skills and how they align with Islamic values like honesty, hard work, and integrity. Avoid exaggeration and focus on your real strengths and achievements. This approach will lead to opportunities that are the best fit for you, both professionally and spiritually.

4. Focus on Short-Term Goals

Set achievable goals that lead to gradual improvement. For instance, if you’re struggling with regular prayers, start by ensuring you never miss the Fajr prayer, then gradually incorporate more prayers until you’re consistently performing all five. Another example could be setting a weekly goal to read and understand a particular Surah from the Quran.

5. Start a Halal Business

When starting a business, ensure that all transactions are free from interest and deception. For example, if you’re opening a cafe, source halal-certified ingredients and create a space that reflects Islamic values. This might include a section for prayer or ensuring modest decor. Your business should not just be a source of income, but also a positive addition to the Muslim community.

6. Believe in Yourself

Confidence rooted in faith is powerful. For example, if you’re aspiring to be a leader in your community, believe that you can make a difference while adhering to Islamic principles. Your confidence should be a reflection of your trust in Allah’s plan and your abilities.

7. Establish Friendship with Your Parents

Work on understanding and empathizing with your parents. Engage in activities together, like attending a weekly Halaqa (Islamic study circle) or volunteering for a charity event as a family. These shared experiences can build stronger bonds and mutual respect.

8. Support Others

Islam emphasizes the importance of helping those in need. This could be through Zakat (obligatory charity) or Sadaqah (voluntary charity). Support doesn’t always have to be financial; it could be as simple as offering a listening ear to someone in distress or mentoring a youth in your community.

9. Pray to Allah

Regular prayer is your direct communication with Allah. Enhance your prayer experience by learning the meaning behind the words you recite. For instance, understand the meaning of Surah Al-Fatiha to deepen the significance of your prayers. Also, try to incorporate Tahajjud (night prayer) into your routine for a more intimate conversation with your Creator.

10. Never Stop Loving

This encompasses self-love, love for others, and love for Allah. Practice self-love by taking care of your physical and mental health. Show love to others through acts of kindness, like cooking a meal for a neighbor or offering a helping hand without being asked. And express your love for Allah by following His commandments and being grateful for His blessings.

These ten steps are not just actions but a lifestyle that aligns with Islamic teachings. They are about creating a balance in life, strengthening your faith, and positively impacting the world around you. Remember, it’s the small, consistent steps that lead to significant changes. May Allah guide us all in this journey through 2024 and beyond.