FINDING A BALANCE IN LIFE

Bismillahir-Rahmanir-Rahim Alhamdulillahi rabbil-‘alamin was-Salatu was-Salam ‘ala Sayyidil-Mursalin wa ‘ala ‘Alihi wa Sahbihi Ajma’in. As Salamu 'alaikum wa rahmatullah wa barakatuh.

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In the intricate tapestry of our lives, we frequently encounter moments of inadequacy and struggle, where the delicate balance between managing responsibilities and pursuing our goals seems elusive. In the contemporary era, the concept of "Barakah" takes on a profound significance, as time itself becomes constricted, mirroring the prophetic narration of Anas bin Malik: "The hour shall not be established until time is constricted, and the year is like a month, a month is like the week, and the week is like the day, and the day is like the hour, and the hour is like the flare of the fire."

One formidable adversary to the Barakah of our days is the pervasive influence of distractions, notably social media. The mindless consumption of information and the unbridled scrolling through digital content can erode the sanctity of our time, leaving us devoid of any meaningful benefit. To navigate these challenges, a strategic approach to time management and a deliberate effort to curb distractions are imperative. Amidst the chaos and constraints, hope is not lost. The Quran, a beacon of wisdom, and the narratives of the prophets provide a timeless reservoir of solutions to the recurring predicaments of human existence. The Quran, as the divine word of the All-Knower, carefully selects the most archetypal stories from the lives of exemplary individuals, offering guidance and solace in the face of adversity.

Reflecting on the factors that diminish Barakah in our lives, mismanagement of sleep stands out. The Quran, in Suratul-Muzzammil, encourages dedicating the last one-third of the night to worship, emphasizing the rejuvenating power of spiritual engagement during these hours. Furthermore, the avoidance of learning from failures, experiences, and feedback perpetuates a cycle of stagnation. The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) admonished believers not to be stung from the same hole twice, urging a proactive approach to personal growth. Acknowledging and appreciating our blessings play a pivotal role in restoring Barakah. The hadith narrated by Ibn Abbas underscores the significance of health and free time, cautioning against the common tendency to overlook these blessings. Cultivating gratitude and mindfulness can serve as a remedy for the pervasive sense of inadequacy. To enhance Barakah and effectively manage time, adopting a measured and consistent approach is crucial. The advice of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) to take up good deeds within one's capacity underscores the virtue of regularity in actions. Overcommitment and overfocus on a single pursuit can lead to burnout and neglect of other important aspects of life.

A psychological study (https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1037/apl0000308) validates the importance of breaks and relaxation, showing that incorporating moments of rest and rejuvenation positively impacts performance. This aligns with the prophetic guidance to strike a balance between work, family, and worship. Abdullah bin Amr bin Al-As narrated a hadith in which the Prophet (ﷺ) emphasized the need to diversify one's commitments, highlighting the rights that one's body, eyes, and family hold.

In conclusion, while the challenges to Barakah in our lives are myriad, the guidance provided by the Quran and the wisdom of the Prophet (ﷺ) offer a compass to navigate the complexities of modern existence. By embracing a balanced and intentional approach to time management, learning from experiences, and fostering gratitude, we can reclaim the lost Barakah and lead a more fulfilling and purposeful life.