Overcoming Post-Ramadan Guilt Together

Assalamu'alaikum,

You open your eyes and squint at the sun rays coming through your windows. Your heart sinks as you realize you missed Fajr again for the third day.

With a groan, you reach for your phone and discover three simultaneous snooze alarms that have failed to wake you up.

Your body feels heavy and unresponsive as you attempt to swing your legs over the edge of the bed. Each step towards the washroom seems to take an enormous effort as if the weight of your guilt is physically holding you down.

A quiet sigh escapes your lips as you ponder: Why is it so difficult to wake up for Fajr as you did during Ramadan?

I'm sure some of us can relate to the above experience - this experience of missing Fajr post-Ramadan and feeling a sense of guilt for not being able to be as disciplined as we were during Ramadan.

In moments like these, you have two options.

1. Criticize yourself and fall into a spiral of negative self-talk.

2. Be your own compassionate coach, guiding yourself through this post-Ramadan phase.

Let's focus on the second option.

When you wake up late for Fajr (for any reason whatsoever: stayed up late watching Netflix, had a late meal with friends, insomnia, etc.), reframe the guilt into humble gratitude.

Be thankful to Allah SWT for allowing you to wake up and feel this spiritual remorse for missing the beautiful Fajr prayer.

It's a sign that your heart is alive and you're given a new day and chance to improve yourself.

In those early moments, channel your guilt into seeking Istighfar (forgiveness) from your Lord and remind yourself that it's not your deeds but His Mercy that grants you Paradise. Then, hasten to perform your prayers without delay, demonstrating your commitment.

After your prayers, reflect on what happened the previous night:

Based on your analysis, plan for the evening to ensure you wake up early for Fajr the next day. Pray to Allah sincerely, asking for the opportunity to wake up on time.

Continue the rest of the day with hope in Allah's mercy, and don't let the guilt of missing Fajr be a reason for you to give up on doing further acts of worship that day or conducting yourself beautifully to your family and colleagues.

I hope these suggestions help and remember, even if you continue missing Fajr prayers the following days, never lose hope and keep trying; insha'Allah, you'll rejoin the Fajr Club soon :).

When you do manage to wake up for Fajr, please remember me and the Productive Muslim team in your prayers.

JazakumAllah khair.

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