Every woman has family responsibilities and finds it challenging to pursue her career goals. Islam encourages a balanced lifestyle as it helps in achieving spiritual and worldly success. Muslim women plays multiple roles as a professional, mother, and community member. But balancing these multiple roles can be challenging making you drained and uncertain.
By being a woman, you can fulfill your goals by having better time management and prioritization. In this way, you can be able to reduce stress and improve family relationships.
Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said,
“ Observe the fast sometimes and leave them (the fast) at other times; stand up for the prayer and sleep at night. Your body has a right over you, your eyes have a right over you, and your wife has a right over you.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari 5199)
These words help us understand to have a balance between our worship, and health, and emphasize the balance in every aspect of our lives.
What is a Balanced Lifestyle?
A balanced lifestyle means allocating a specific time for all personal and professional activities in your life along with fulfilling family responsibilities. It primarily means fulfilling the responsibility while having moderation in all aspects of life. A balanced lifestyle will help you have a successful life career, strong family bonding, and a supportive environment. Allah says in the Holy Quran:
It is Allah Who has sent down the Book in Truth, and the Balance (by which to weigh conduct)
Surah Ash-Shura (42:17)
The life of Prophet SAW is a great example for us, especially in the aspect of living a balanced life. He actively participates in worship, spends time with family, and manages household chores. Our lives are a beautiful mixture of responsibilities, each one a blessing and a test. That’s why having a balance is important for our personal and spiritual well-being. It strengthens our faith and helps us to excel in our careers and passions.
The Concept of Balance in Islam
Islam provides us with valuable teachings with respect to balancing our personal and professional lives. It makes our lifestyle easy in every perspective of life. Muslim women are encouraged to engage in productive work while prioritizing their family duties.
This balance allows women to progress in their careers while nurturing their families which leads to a more fulfilling life. Allah SWT says in the Quran
And one of His signs is that He created for you spouses from among yourselves so that you may find comfort in them. And He has placed between you compassion and mercy. Surely these are signs for people who reflect.
(Surah Al-Rum, Verse 21)
A family is a fundamental unit of building a society where a woman is responsible for taking care of it. These verses signify our roles as wives, mothers, and daughters nurture these relationships. Our work, whether professional or volunteer, is a means to support ourselves, our families, and our communities.
“A woman is a shepherd in her husband’s house and is responsible for her flock.” (Sahih Muslim)
We have a great example of Muslim women in the past who managed their professions, families, and the responsibility of spreading Islam.
Hazrat Khadija RA, wife of Muhammad SAW is the best example for us. She was a successful businesswoman and demonstrated exceptional balance and responsibility in her personal and professional life. She inherited her father’s successful trading business and expanded it through her intelligence and strategic decision-making.
Despite the age difference with the prophet Mohammed SAW, she provided emotional support and encouragement throughout His prophethood. She managed her household, raised her children, and supported her husband. The prophet SAW said.
“The best of the world’s women is Mary (in her lifetime), and the best of the world’s women is Khadijah (in her lifetime).” [Bukhari]
Tips to Maintain Work-life Balance
Managing a balance and family responsibility is not a gender base but still, a woman is highly responsible for taking care of the family, especially their kids. It becomes difficult for them while pursuing their career. Muslim women must have harmony between their profession and family and spiritual obligations. Here are a few tips for a woman to maintain a work-life balance.
1. Set Boundaries in Work and Personal Time
Establishing clear boundaries is important for a healthy work-life balance.
- Specify your work hours and avoid doing another task at that time.
- Don’t check work emails or work calls other than those hours.
- Designate a workspace and avoid working from personal areas, like your bedroom.
- Engage in activities that signal the end of work, such as exercise or reading.
2. Make a To-Do List and Prioritize
Every task is not important that’s why you must prioritize work of prime importance. Effective time management is the best way to have a proper balance in your daily life routine.
- Create a daily or weekly to-do list
- Prioritize tasks based on importance and deadlines
- Break large tasks into smaller, manageable chunks
- Focus on high-priority tasks first
3. Don’t Be Afraid to Delegate
Delegation can help reduce workload and increase productivity. You can ask for help or assign work to those who can do better.
- Identify tasks that can be delegated to colleagues or family members
- Communicate clear expectations and deadlines
- Empower others to take ownership of tasks
4. Get Time For You
Scheduling personal time is ideal for your healthy life. Self-care improves your mental and physical health. You can spend this time doing your hobby.
- Give time to activities and hobbies that relax you
- Perform self-care practices like exercise, yoga, or meditation
- Prioritize sleep and maintain a healthy diet
5. Get Help When You Need It
Seeking support is a sign of strength. When you find it hard to fulfill the responsibility, ask for help. It could be your husband, family member, or mentor. They can share your responsibility in your busy schedule and manage your time.
- Identify resources, such as colleagues, mentors, or therapists
- Communicate needs and concerns clearly
- Be open to feedback and guidance
6. Creating a Healthy Habit
A busy life keeps us away from self-care. Developing healthy habits can improve overall well-being.
- Establish a routine for exercise, prayer, and self-reflection
- Do exercise, eat healthy, and have positive thinking
- Monitor progress and adjust habits as needed
- Celebrate small victories and milestones
It’s very important to take breaks from your busy life. It can boost productivity and reduce burnout. Schedule regular breaks throughout the day and engage in relaxing activities.
Final Thoughts
As a Muslim woman, you may face unique challenges, including societal pressure and feelings of guilt. But remember, your worth and value come from Allah, not from external validation. Focus on your strengths, celebrate your achievements, and be open to communicating.
In your journey, get inspiration from the Prophet’s (SAW) teachings and the examples of strong Muslim women. They demonstrated that balance and success are possible with faith and determination. You are not alone in this journey.
Strengthen your relationships with friends, family, and community members who can offer emotional support. With faith, support, and determination, you can achieve a beautiful balance between your work, family, and spiritual life.
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