Valuing Time and Health
As you grow older and prioritize your health, the value of time becomes increasingly apparent. Over the past year and in the months of 2024, I’ve developed a deeper appreciation for time.
In this article I will discuss how I master time management through healing. Going from an over-sleeper to a morning person that loves waking up early, taking advantage of each minute.
I am more motivated and happier, with a strong sense of time management. My mornings begin early, with a routine that includes prayer (Fajr), administrative work, meal prep, and a visit to the gym. I get to do all these tasks before most people have even waken up.
My days are now much calmer than it used to be just a year ago, thanks to mastering time management.
This article explores how you can manage your time effectively, especially within the context of a Muslim lifestyle.
1. A Year of Transformation
Spring and summer of 2024 have been pivotal in my life. I am in a healthy state of mind, feeling less worried and grateful for a heart and mind aligned with where they should be.
This change hasn’t been due to dramatic events but rather a conscious choice to be selective with my time. I’ve shifted my perspective, viewing discernment not as a curse but as a gift.
Overcoming the habit of oversleeping during the day, I now plan my days ahead and adhere to a simple, minimalist routine that has been transformative.
You need a small breakthrough in life to finally start caring enough to appreciate your time. This can literally be anything in your personal life, your work balance and overall day-to-day lifestyle. You got to find your inner strength. Some sort of motivation. Mine started with a structured gym routine 3 times a week.
2. The Power of a Routine
Life feels incredibly good! My new routine has brought me happiness, allowing me to achieve everything I’ve ever dreamed of, thanks to God’s grace. This process of growth and knowledge is something I eagerly share, hoping to help others find peace and contentment, regardless of their current situation.
Whether you’re a business owner, student, or work in progress, you’ll find insights here to help you become a better version of yourself.
A strong and healthy routine for a Muslim is the obvious — Planning our days according to our prayers. Girls, this part is so essential! As soon as you have figured out a way to manage your days with each obligatory prayer, that is when you have won.
Can you imagine it took me 24 years to get to a place where prayers is 100% my priority and everything I do during a day revolves 100% around my Salah? It has changed my life for the better, and it can do those same wonders for you life too.
3. Finding your True Calling
When I started this blog, I discovered what might be my true calling. Last year, my focus was primarily on my remote job, socializing, traveling, and seeking a new life balance.
Following my divorce, I knew I needed time to explore life without being bogged down by work, routine, or mental health concerns. I took that time, and it paid off, as my separation was smooth and drama-free.
Finding your true calling means you got to dig deep within your mind, and listen to it. You will also need to be more aware of your gut feeling, knowing when to react and when to take action for what truly matters. Being blessed enough to learn what you want to do with your life is so important.
This will play a huge part in helping you to manage your time according to your renowned self. Whether that is education, pursing your career, finding your passions to start a business or sports. It could literally be anything that makes you happy — so, don´t be afraid to try new things!
4. The joy of Writing a journal
By November 2023, I felt a strong pull towards writing again. I kept a journal detailing my life goals, accomplishments, affirmations, and to-do lists, which served as a stepping stone to my current state. Writing on this blog and connecting with readers has become a passion.
Checking my emails and messages from readers is a joy. This platform has become an essential part of my life, a public expression of my passion, which is quite different from what I envisioned in November 2023.
You will benefit so much from writing journals every single day. Those days where you are feeling a little bit off, are the best once to pick up a journal or notepad and write out your mind.
Map every detail of your day — how did it go? What made you feel so sad? Did you eat enough on this day? Your crush didn´t notice you? Literally, you can write it all down. It is only meant for your own sanity and to have a piece of mind before you go to bed. Writing is very calming for the mind, and will benefit you tremendously longterm.
I like to end each page with positive affirmations and one sentence of manifestation with the upmost trust in Allah. And since I´m a Muslim, I like to end the entire day by listening to one of my favorite Surah from the Quran.
Depending on the mood, it could be anything — the Quran is beautiful regardless. This will also create a sense of calmness, allowing me to sleep well during the night with no disturbance. You can read about my experience with sleep paralysis by clicking here.
5. The Importance of Time Management
Time management is crucial; it can make or break your life. It’s akin to distinguishing between energy givers and energy takers. Energy givers recharge you, boosting your motivation and bringing positive vibes into your life. Conversely, energy takers drain you, leaving you tired, stressed, and frustrated, leading to procrastination.
6. Surround Yourself with the Right People
It’s better to be alone than surrounded by energy takers who leave you depleted. Find and surround yourself with those who uplift you, as they will naturally gravitate toward you when you manage your time well. Spending too much time with people who don’t add value to your life can cause significant delays and confusion in your own journey.
You are much more likely to save valuable time of your days when you no longer need to entertain certain groups or individuals. Imagine your life as important as your time.
You wouldn´t want to pour energy into something which only takes right? So, be incredibly careful of which people you hang around with — they can make or break you.
By surrounding yourself with the right people, not only will you be more respected, but loved for who you are. The conversations around good people are very different from the opposite individuals.
The right companions will be honest with you, they are oriented with solutions and less complaints. These people will empower you and be positive light in your life. Don´t forget to take care of them as much as they do you!
7. Invest in Yourself
Spend your time wisely, avoiding frivolous activities, and focus on yourself. You’ll find life quieter, calmer, and more stress-free once you eliminate things that steal your precious moments.
If you’re in your mid-20s like me, now is the time to sacrifice social outings and excessive time with friends or family. Invest in yourself, it pays the best interest.
These years are crucial for building a promising future. It’s okay to be a little selfish in choosing who to spend your time with. You can still be a good friend, daughter, or colleague while prioritizing yourself more.
The more you invest energy into yourself, the better your understanding of what you want versus what you need will be more clear. What you want isn´t necessary what you need.
This will become more clear once you learn how to properly invest into your life generally. Take those extra measures for yourself, no one can do this better than you.