10 Ramadhan Tips for the Muslim Professional

So how can we best make an attempt to bring the sacred into our working lives?

1. Start your day with the right intention. Make a niyyathat you are going to be kind, hard-working and helpful, and see any hunger pangs or tiredness as a test of this niyya
2. Stay positive. Positivity attracts positivity. If you have a calm positive attitude, you will find your day sails by and people will want to be around you. Try not to grumble when your tummy rumbles because you may find your friends – and perhaps your blessings – slowly disappear
3. Let this Ramadhan be the month of change. If you are looking towards a promotion or sales goal, go for it. As a verse (At-Talaq, 65:3) says: And whosoever relies upon Allah, then He is sufficient for him. Increase your reliance upon Allah and realise where your strength comes from. You will inspire others in your office and most certainly impress your boss
4. If you are the only Muslim in your office, take the time to explain to your manager the demands of Ramadhan, and explain the rules you will be observing. Use this as an opportunity to educate

5. Talk to your colleagues about Ramadhan when they ask, and get them to hold you to account. If you tell someone you’re supposed to be watching your attitude, you’ll feel more responsible for the words that you use
6. Try to get to work as early as you can to use the energy from sahur and make the most of your morning when you will be most focused. Use this time to do your creative work and the tasks that require the most brain power. Use the afternoon to complete routine tasks and admin, when your energy might be flagging
7. Work hard. The devil makes work for idle hands, as the saying goes. The more you keep yourself occupied, the more you’ll be distracted from any physical hardship associated with fasting
8. If you are a manager of an office with several religions present, celebrate all major festivals. Put decorations up for Christmas, Diwali and so on. That way, during Ramadhan you can also celebrate with after-work iftar, reflective lunch breaks and encouraging non-Muslims to be discreet about eating during the day
9. The Prophet (pbuh) encouraged us to do charitable works and good deeds during Ramadhan. Ask your manager or HR department if you can use this time to get involved with corporate social responsibility projects, such as volunteering or mentoring
10. Make sure you clear your desk of negativity, and put up a few positive quotes and hadiths