Tipping the Scales: Balancing Different Acts of Life

Tipping the Scales: Balancing Different Aspects of Life

By: Sajeeha Waqar

From performing the five daily prayers, to dropping your kids off at soccer practice, to getting in at least five hours of sleep, life can get pretty hectic. In this generation of instantaneous response, we may find it difficult to cope as someone who just wants to pause and take life one step at a time. The world we currently live in is powered by machines, and sometimes, we may feel that we too need to emulate this fast-paced, constantly evolving, never resting ideal. But what we forget sometimes, is that we are not machines; we are human beings. And as human beings, it is important to acknowledge that we require balance. And being Muslims, this balance means finding time for our Creator as well as our family and our life outside of home.

Primarily, what one should first focus on incorporating into one’s routine is the purpose for which one was created- ibadah. With so much on our plate, we may find it difficult to incorporate even the five daily prayers into our day, let alone other acts of worship. Of course, salah is a priority above all else, and we should not compromise this for anything, as Allah states in many Qur’anic verses, including the following: “Maintain with care the [obligatory] prayers and [in particular] the middle prayer and stand before Allah, devoutly obedient,” (2:238).

However, even if we do pray, it is also important to establish other habits in our lives that bring us closer to Allah SWT, such as reciting Qur’an, making extra dhikr, and even seeking knowledge through Islamic videos and books. The problem we often have is that we think doing small acts of worship is of no use compared to people who pray Tahajjud every night or fast Mondays and Thursdays.

However, this is not the case. The Prophet SAW stated: “The deeds most loved by Allah are those that are those done regularly, even if they are small,” (Sahih Muslim). From this hadith, it is clear that the magnitude of the good we are doing does not make it any less precious to Allah SWT; rather it is the consistency and commitment with which we do the act of worship that Allah SWT loves. Even if we are simply doing dhikr after Maghrib every day, or reading just one page of Qur’an consistently every morning after Fajr, it is beloved to Allah SWT.

Along with this, we need to remember that repentance is also an act of worship that is equally, if not more important than our deeds themselves. This is because, as human beings, we are constantly making mistakes. Best stated by the Prophet SAW himself; “Every son of Adam sins and the best of those who sin are those who repent,” (Tirmithi). Allah SWT is ready to forgive us, we just need to take the first step towards Him and ask for it. And Allah SWT can make it easy for us to come towards Him; we just need to make the time for Him to do so.

Just as it is critical to set aside time for Allah, our families have rights over us; such as our time and attention. Our Messenger SAW was exemplary in character, especially to his family, and he himself expresses just how crucial this relationship is: “The best of you are those who are best to their families,” (Tirmidhi). What often happens in today’s age of electronic devices and internet connection is that we become strangers to each other, even while living under the same roof. Many of us are guilty of texting family members rather than speaking to them, even when they are only a room away! Conversation is probably the most important component of any relationship, and avoiding even these small opportunities to form a connection causes family members to drift apart. It is more than essential that we set aside time to talk to and get to know every member of our families, so that nobody feels neglected. Even if one of your children is watching TV, watch with them. Simply showing our parents, children, and siblings that they are worth our precious time, and that we like being with them creates an unspoken trust and sense of belonging. To further follow a Sunnah of the Prophet SAW, consult with everyone before making a decision. Even if children may not have power over a matter, giving value to their opinions and ideas will develop their confidence and allow them to have a strong sense of self in the future. It is of utmost importance that the family is a safe-space for children and parents, and not a place of insecurity and discomfort. Putting time and effort into contributing to this safe-space is exactly what will maintain it, Insha’Allah.

Our families and spirituality are not the only things we should be giving time. It is just as important that we are giving ourselves the attention that we deserve! This means we are making sure that our body, the home that Allah SWT gave our souls for this life, has rights over us and will speak either for or against us on the Day of Judgement, is taken care of. One important element that is often neglected is getting enough sleep, which is approximately 6-8 hours depending on your age. It is important to strive for a healthy amount of sleep, no matter how much you have to get done. Staying up late and waking up early will only be counterproductive, since the body will not be functioning as it should be.

Along with a sufficient amount of sleep, we need to focus on our diet and eat healthily. Frequently, what tends to happen when we are busy is that we do one of three things. We either skip meals or fill up on large portions of fast food; we get through the day with junk and snacks, or we may not eat altogether. If you need to go to work or school, prepare a lunch beforehand so that you can simply grab it when you need to leave. Making use of the versatility of certain foods, like eggs and apples proves to be fruitful. And remember, bigger doesn’t necessarily mean better. It is better to eat a small yet healthy and fulfilling meal than to eat large portions of junk that are detrimental to our health. After a good night’s rest and a healthy breakfast, go out for a small, 30 minute walk to wake yourself up and get your heart pumping. In the long run, these habits will enable us to perform at our best. As they say, “a healthy mind is in a healthy body.”

Balancing a life of spirituality, physicality, and family is never easy. However, organizing our lives to meet these needs will bring about a positive change that will allow us to become better versions of ourselves.