Trying to achieve a healthy work-life balance is an ongoing struggle for everyone. As Muslim women especially, our commitments to family, community, education, health and, most importantly, Allah (SWT), bring about unique challenges that can make us feel overwhelmed and disappointed in ourselves for not doing enough to maintain balance in all aspects of our life. 

In these times when we struggle, it’s important to acknowledge that we are all doing the best we can and that Allah (SWT) is seeing our efforts. What matters most is that we don’t give up. Together, we continue to find strategies that allow us to achieve the balance we want to see in our lives. Here are some tips that can help us reach this goal and thrive in our faith and our work. 

Put Allah (SWT) First

Our faith forms the foundation of our lives. It guides our actions, shapes our values, gives us a sense of purpose and grants us peace in our hearts. 

In turn, by prioritising our relationship with Allah (SWT), He helps us gather the strength and resilience we need to overcome struggles in other spheres of our lives. 

Let us try our best to remember Allah (SWT) and the blessings He’s given us. Aim to pray on time and take the time to daily perform acts of worship, such as reading Quran, making dhikr, giving charity or helping someone in need.  

Even if it’s just a little bit every day, Allah (SWT) is the Most Compassionate and loves us for our efforts. For the Prophet (ﷺ) said “Take up good deeds only as much as you are able, for the best deeds are those done regularly even if they are few.’ (Ibn Majah).  

Surround yourself with a supportive community 

It’s important to have a safe and welcoming environment where you can practise and work on your faith. No one should ever be made to feel ashamed of their background or their religion. And we all have a right to practice our religion and advocate for our needs with confidence and respect. 

Be unafraid to request accommodations at work or school that make it easier for you to practice Islam. Ask for the time and space to pray or for a flexible work schedule during Ramadan. Have conversations with your colleagues or managers about the values of Islam and the importance it holds in your life. 

By speaking up for your religious rights, you not only strengthen your connection with your faith but also help pave the way for a more harmonious work environment. One where you can build connections and seek support from like-minded individuals, as well as help others on their spiritual journey. 

Turn Work into an Act of Worship 

Each of us has been blessed with unique skills and talents that hold the potential to create a lasting impact on our communities.

Whether we find ourselves in a corporate setting, pursuing creative projects, or engaged in any other professional field, we all have the ability to make our work a beautiful act of worship. 

When we approach our work with a sincere intention to serve and benefit others, we unlock the true potential of our skills and talents. 

Our work becomes a vehicle through which we can help power real change in our community, uplift those around us, and fulfil the responsibilities given to us by our Creator. By aligning our intentions with our Islamic values, we infuse our work with a deeper purpose and meaning.

Know When to Take a Break 

Lastly, in the fast-paced and demanding world we live in, we need to acknowledge that there are times when we have to prioritise our physical, emotional and mental health. 

Setting aside time for reflection, meditation or simply connecting with Allah (SWT) through prayer or recitation of the Quran can provide a sense of peace. As it’s these moments of pause that allow us to recharge our spiritual batteries and find inner peace amidst the chaos of our daily lives.

After all, taking care of ourselves – the body and soul Allah (SWT) gifted us with – is a form of worship. By setting clear boundaries, we can maintain a healthy balance between our work and our devotion to Allah (SWT).

Balancing work and faith does require effort and commitment. But through guidance from Allah (SWT) and the support of our communities, we’re capable of achieving this balance. 

By prioritising our worship, seeking out a supportive workplace, practising self-care, and approaching our work as a means of worship and service, we can surely achieve our goals of thriving in our careers while staying true to our faith.