How to remain positive amidst the challenges of life

[ummtaalib]

Q. Lately, I have been feeling overwhelmed and stressed, as it seems difficult to achieve my goals, leading to thoughts of giving up. Despite this, I strive to maintain my faith and remain strong. Could you offer any advice on how to stay positive and resilient amidst the challenges of life, especially when it feels like this life is so short?

 

A. May Allah Ta’ala ease your heart and grant you peace in these challenging times. It is natural to feel overwhelmed by the weight of our goals and the pressures of this Dunya (world), but remember that our existence here is just a brief journey, a test designed by Allah Ta’ala to purify and elevate our souls.

 

Allah Ta’ala reminds us in the Quran: "And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient." (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:155) Patience (Sabr) and reliance on Allah Ta’ala (Tawakkul) are key in navigating the trials of life.

 

Here are some steps that may help you stay positive and grounded in your Imaan (faith):

 

1. Reconnect with Allah Ta’ala: Regular prayer (Salaah), recitation of the Quran, and making dhikr (remembrance of Allah Ta’ala) can bring immense tranquillity to the heart. Allah Ta’ala says, "Verily, in the remembrance of Allah Ta’ala do hearts find peace and tranquillity." (Surah Ar-Ra'd, 13:28)

 

2. Break down your goals: Sometimes, we feel overwhelmed because we try to take on too much at once. Break your goals into smaller, manageable tasks. Achieve them step by step, and rely on Allah Ta’ala for strength and guidance.

 

3. Reflect on the temporary nature of life:  Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam said, "Be in this world as if you were a stranger or a traveller." (Sunan Tirmidhi) This life is fleeting, and our ultimate goal is the Hereafter. Every difficulty we endure with patience and faith brings us closer to eternal bliss in Jannah, Insha’Allah.

 

4. Seek support from others: Do not hesitate to share your feelings with trusted friends, family, or a counsellor. Sometimes, speaking about our struggles can lighten the burden and provide a new perspective.

 

5. Practice gratitude: Focus on the blessings you have, no matter how small they may seem. Gratitude can shift your perspective from what is lacking to what is present, bringing contentment to your heart.

 

6. Remember the bigger picture: Every trial you face is an opportunity to grow closer to Allah Ta’ala. It is through these challenges that our character is refined and our faith strengthened.

 

In conclusion, life may be short, but it is also a precious opportunity to earn the pleasure of Allah Ta’ala and prepare for the eternal life to come. Stay strong, continue to make Du’aa, and trust in Allah Ta’ala’s plan for you. He is the Best of Planners, and He knows what is best for you in this life and the next.

 

And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best

 

Mufti Muhammed Hamza Farooqui

Mufti Taahir Hansa

 

(The answer hereby given is specifically based on the question asked and should be read together with the question asked. Islamic rulings on this Q&A newsletter are answered in accordance to the Hanafi Fiqh unless otherwise stated.) 

 

 

Fatwa Department
Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) 
Council of Muslim Theologians