10 Tips for Self-Revival for 2021

The New Year is upon us and here are few tips for your personal development in 2021.

1. Take the initiative. Change is a verb. You have to first change to see the change

“And each person will have what he strived for. Soon the outcome of his work will be shown” (An-Najm 53:39-40)

“A chain of angels in front and behind him is assigned by Allah to watch over him. Allah never changes the condition of a nation until they change what is in themselves, and if Allah wanted to destroy people, no one could stop Him, and they would have no protector besides Him.” (Ar-Ra’ad 13:11)

2. Don’t procrastinate. Start from this moment

The companion Abdullah Ibn Omar (Allah be pleased with him) used to say, “When the evening comes, do not wait for the morning; and when the morning comes, do not wait for the evening.” – Collected by Al-Bukhari

3. Start with baby steps and achievable goals

The Prophet (SAW) said to his companions, “Is it difficult for any of you to recite one third of the Quran in one night?” This suggestion was difficult for them so they said, “Who among us has the power to do so, O Allah’s Apostle?” Allah Apostle replied, “He is Allah, the One, Allah the Eternal. He is not a father nor a son. None is equal to Him.” (Surat Al-Ikhlas 112:1-4) is equal to one third of the Quran.” – Collected by Al-Bukhari

The Prophet (SAW)  said, “Is one amongst you powerless to get one thousand virtues every day.” Amongst those who had been sitting there, one asked, “How one amongst us can get one thousand virtues every day?” He said, “Recite sub-hana Allah ” one hundred times for (by reciting them) one thousand virtues are recorded (to your credit) and one thousand vices are removed.” – Collected by Muslim

4. Be consistent. A small step a day, but for everyday

A’isha reported Allah’s Messenger (SAW) as saying, “The acts most pleasing to Allah are those which are done continuously, even if they are small.” And when A’isha did any act she did it continuously.” – Collected by Muslim

5. Make sure you are changing towards the right direction

6. Have a support group for your change

7. Be patient

The above three tips are mentioned in Surah Al-A’sr 103:1-3.

“By the age, humans are at a loss, except the believers who are righteous, and encourage each other to be truthful and patient.”

8. Never give up. If you trip, start again

“Those who do wrong ignorantly then repent immediately can expect Allah to accept their repentance, and Allah will relent towards them. Allah is the Knower, Wise.” (An-Nisa 4:17)

The Prophet (SAW) said, “All children of Adam are sinners, and the best sinners are those who repent.” – Collected by Al-Termithi

9. Keep your eyes on the prize –  achievement, triumphant, and satisfaction

“This is a real victory. Everyone should work for this.” (As-Saffat 37:60-61)

10. Always ask God for help

Allah’s Prophet (SAW) used to say, “O Allah! I seek refuge with You from incapacity and laziness, from cowardice and geriatric old age, and I seek refuge with You from the afflictions of life and death, and I seek refuge with You from the punishment of the grave.” – Collected by Al-Bukhari