Are you looking for a formula for success in this world and the hereafter? Does Islam teach only about worship and duties or does it enlighten us about happiness and productivity as well? This article will explore the undeniable link between Islam and productivity.
Islam Religion Beliefs and Individual Well-Being
The beauty of Islam is that it has answers to every topic one can think of. Its teachings are not limited to rights and duties but extend to gaining success and happiness. When the call to prayer is made, Allah invites the believers to success. Here are some core Islamic principles for productivity.
10 Islamic Teachings for Productivity
1. Purity of Intention
According to a hadith, actions are judged upon intentions. This shows how fair Allah is to his people. If a person works with pure intention to do good to society and please Allah, Allah adds barakah to his work. On the other hand, if a person works with ill intention, such a person might be successful in amassing wealth. However, his wealth might not benefit him. Miseries would engulf him making his life sorrowful.
2. Time Management
Islam places great stress on time management. Allah designed the five obligatory prayers so that people discipline themselves effortlessly. Performing Fajr prayer builds the habit of waking up early. Today science proves that this time of the day is the most productive when the brain is the most active. Those who miss Fajr’s prayers miss Allah’s blessings. Islam highly disapproves of laziness. It teaches people to be active and effectively utilize time.
3. Hard work and Dedication
Hard work and dedication are one of the core principles of Islam. Allah does not approve of any income earned through unfair means or by luck. That is why gambling is haram in Islam because it counts on a chance to win money. On the other hand, Allah loves it when a person works hard and sincerely to earn a living for himself and his dependents. Allah adds barakah to his work and increases his sustenance.
4. Focus on Learning
Knowledge is the cornerstone of Islam. The first word Allah taught to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was “read”. According to a hadith, education is compulsory for every man and woman. The golden age of Islam reveals how most inventions find their traces in Muslim scientists of that period.
Be it religious or worldly, Islam encourages people to gain knowledge. A habit of reading books and staying aware of the latest developments around the world shall make a person more efficient. This would improve his analytical and decision-making skills. Similarly, reading the Quran with translation every day will enlighten him about what he must do to please Allah and increase barakah.
5. Importance of Family
Family is the most important institution in Islam. Social scientists agree that the absence of family impacts a person’s motivation and happiness. Allah commands Muslims to behave gently towards family members. One must be obedient to parents. Taking care of parents in their old age increases the sustenance. Similarly, one must be affectionate and caring towards the spouse. A house where the husband and wife quarrel and have a discordial relationship is devoid of Allah’s blessings.
Corporations today realize the importance of work-life balance for improved productivity. However, Islam taught us about this principle centuries ago. It commands believers to give sufficient time to family. Hence, spend quality time with children, nurturing them and tending to their needs.
6. Strengthen Connection with Allah
Having a strong faith in Allah is imperative for improved productivity. One of the core teachings of Islam is Qadr. It means believing that everything, good or bad is from Allah. When a person strengthens his ties with Allah through prayer and worship, he develops patience and endurance. He gives his best in his work and firmly believes that the outcome depends on Allah’s will. Hence, such a person does not fret over consequences and focuses on his job better.
7. Attitude of Gratitude
Allah says in the Holy Quran that He would increase provisions for those who are thankful. Being thankful is one of the most important virtues in Islam. A grateful person leads a happy and contented life. He works with a positive mindset and does not compare himself with others. On the other hand, an ungrateful person is constantly unhappy. Such a person cannot focus on his work, lowering his productivity and efficiency. The best way to offer gratitude to Allah is by offering the obligatory prayers regularly.
8. Focus on Social Welfare
Allah says that for those who share his blessings with others, Allah multiplies their wealth countless times. Sadaqah purifies a person’s wealth and improves his productivity. Through such endeavors, society benefits as a whole, reducing crime and poverty.
9. Rights of Community Members
Islam teaches us to maintain cordial ties with different members of the society. These include relatives, neighbors, and co-workers. This is one of the noblest acts in the eyes of Allah. Allah blesses such a person immensely. Moreover, a person who helps others shall never be left alone in difficult times.
10. Taking Care of Health
Islam encourages Muslims to adopt moderation. This concept extends to eating. A healthy body and mind is crucial for improved productivity. A person who takes care of his health eats moderately, and does regular exercise shall lead a happy and healthy life. He would be more focused and productive at work.
Conclusion
Islam and productivity go hand in hand. It gives a complete code for a productive and happy life. Therefore, follow the Islamic principles and gain success in both worlds.
