Striking a Balance: Managing Work, Family, and Worship During Ramadan
With Ramadan fast approaching, the familiar anticipation and excitement set in. This sacred month holds profound spiritual significance, and like every year, you eagerly await the opportunity to immerse yourself in its blessings. However, unlike the Ramadan of your childhood, your current reality includes managing a full-time job and caring for your family. The challenge of balancing work, parental responsibilities, and acts of worship can often feel overwhelming.
As much as Ramadan is a deeply cherished time for you, it may not hold the same significance in your workplace. Professional obligations remain unchanged, and the demands of parenthood persist. Many of us find ourselves grappling with the feeling that we are not doing "enough"— whatever that may mean in our individual journeys.
As a professional and a mother for the past six years, I have learned to embrace the reality that my Ramadan will not mirror those of my past, nor will it necessarily align with my idealized expectations. Not at this stage in life. Perhaps when my children are older. However, that does not make my observance any less meaningful or valuable.
To help navigate this balance, here are ten practical strategies to make the most of this blessed month while managing work and family commitments:
1. Establish a Clear Intention (Niyyah)
As we know in Islam, every action begins with intention. Set a sincere and purposeful intention at the onset of Ramadan—not only for increased worship but also for fulfilling your responsibilities as a parent and professional. Remember, providing for your family and raising your children are acts of worship in themselves. While setting Ramadan goals is beneficial, be kind to yourself and avoid rigid expectations. Which brings us to the next point:
2. Focus on Consistency Over Quantity
It can be tempting to set lofty spiritual goals, such as completing the entire Qur’an, attending all 20 Taraweeh prayers, or participating in Qiyam every night of the last 10 days. While these are admirable aspirations, the reality of work and parenting may not always allow for them. Instead of quantifying your ibadaah, prioritize consistency. Identify a meaningful practice that aligns with your schedule and commit to it daily.
3. Incorporate Qur’an Recitation Into Your Routine
After embracing both motherhood and a professional career, I struggled with not being able to complete my Qur’an recitation as I once did. I realized that it was not a lack of effort but rather the increased demands of life. A valuable piece of advice I received was to read a few pages after every prayer. This small yet consistent habit brought tranquility and allowed me to engage with the Qur’an in a sustainable way. What matters most to Allah (swt) is sincerity and steadfastness in worship.
4. Maximize the Tranquil Hours Before Suhoor
It took me time to understand why my mother always woke up well before Suhoor. The pre-dawn hours, known as Tahajjud time, are imbued with serenity and divine blessings. If waking up early every day seems daunting, start by doing so twice a week and gradually increase. Even brief moments of worship and supplication during this time can be incredibly rewarding. It’s the same concept as the ‘5AM Club’ by Robin Sharma. It could potentially change your life and help you have better control of your every day.
5. Utilize Commute Time for Spiritual Enrichment
If you have a daily commute, leverage this time by listening to Islamic lectures or podcasts. Find a speaker whose teachings resonate with you and incorporate these moments of learning into your day. You can also play them at home while doing household tasks, allowing for passive yet meaningful engagement with spiritual content.
6. Engage in Dhikr Throughout the Day
The remembrance of Allah (dhikr) is one of the easiest yet most impactful forms of worship. Recite dhikr while cooking, doing dishes, or completing other household chores. Involve your children in this practice, teaching them the importance of constantly remembering Allah (swt) in everyday moments.
7. Plan and Simplify Meal Preparation
Meal planning can significantly ease the burden of daily cooking. Creating a weekly meal plan and shopping accordingly helps streamline preparation. Pre-cooked staples such as boiled rice, pasta, and marinated proteins can reduce time spent in the kitchen. While extensive meal prepping may not always be feasible, even small steps can make a difference.
8. Participate in Masjid Iftars
Attending community iftars at the masjid can relieve some of the stress of preparing meals while fostering a sense of unity. It also allows you to break your fast in a spiritually enriching environment and pray Maghrib in congregation. However, consider logistical factors, such as the feasibility of returning for Taraweeh, and find a balance that works for your family.
9. Creating Meaningful Ramadan Memories for Children
For children, Ramadan is a new and formative experience. While some may hesitate to emphasize festive decorations, creating a designated Ramadan space at home can help children connect with the month in a tangible way. Simple traditions, such as a Ramadan calendar with daily activities rather than treats, can instill excitement and a deeper appreciation for the spiritual aspects of the month. The goal is to foster a meaningful connection to Ramadan that they will cherish and carry into adulthood.
10. The Power of Silence and Reflection
As parents, silence can be a rare commodity. However, intentionally practicing moments of quiet reflection during Ramadan can be profoundly beneficial. Minimize idle talk, refrain from gossip, and allow the sounds of Qur’an recitation or Islamic lectures to fill your home. Teach your children that Ramadan is not only about fasting and prayer but also about mindfulness, gratitude, and inner tranquility.
Most importantly, embrace the unique Ramadan experience that comes with this stage of life. Every act of worship, every moment spent caring for your family, and every effort made to balance responsibilities is beloved in the eyes of Allah (swt). What truly matters is the sincerity behind your actions. Approach this sacred month with grace, patience, and devotion, knowing that your efforts, however small they may seem, are deeply valued.
Ramadan Kareem to all.
