Notification
Ramadan is one of the most sacred months in Islam, a time for spiritual growth, self-discipline, and increased devotion to Allah. Muslims around the world anticipate Ramadan with high expectations—envisioning a month filled with continuous prayers, deep reflection, and an unbreakable connection with Allah. However, reality often presents challenges that make achieving these expectations more difficult than imagined.
In this blog, we explore the expectations vs. reality of Ramadan, highlighting the common struggles and how to overcome them to make the most of this blessed month.
Expectation 1: A Month of Unwavering Spirituality
Expectation: Many Muslims expect Ramadan to be a month where they achieve peak spirituality. They plan to pray every salah on time, complete multiple readings of the Quran, and engage in endless Dhikr (remembrance of Allah). The idea of Ramadan as a time of spiritual enlightenment creates an idealized image in the minds of believers.
Reality: While Ramadan does provide a unique spiritual atmosphere, maintaining peak spirituality throughout the month can be challenging. Fatigue, work, family responsibilities, and other distractions often make it difficult to maintain consistency. Some people may struggle with waking up for Suhoor (pre-dawn meal) and find themselves too exhausted to pray extra nawafil (voluntary prayers) or engage in lengthy Quran recitations.
How to Overcome: Instead of setting unrealistic spiritual goals, focus on achievable ones. If reading the Quran cover to cover seems overwhelming, set a goal to read a few pages daily with reflection. Prioritize consistency over intensity—perform acts of worship that you can sustain throughout the month.
Expectation 2: Healthy and Light Eating Habits
Expectation: Many Muslims plan to eat light and healthy meals during Suhoor and Iftar, expecting Ramadan to be a time of detox and better health. They anticipate losing weight due to fasting and consuming nutrient-dense meals to maintain energy levels.
Reality: The reality often differs. After long hours of fasting, cravings for deep-fried snacks, sugary drinks, and heavy meals take over. Instead of eating in moderation, many people end up overeating at Iftar, leading to sluggishness and even weight gain. Suhoor often becomes a rushed meal, sometimes skipped entirely, leaving people drained during the day.
How to Overcome: Stick to balanced meals that provide sustained energy. Focus on protein-rich foods, fiber, and complex carbohydrates. Hydrate well between Iftar and Suhoor, and avoid excessive caffeine and processed foods. Moderation is key to maintaining energy and staying healthy throughout the month.
Expectation 3: Praying Taraweeh Every Night Without Fail
Expectation: Muslims often expect to attend Taraweeh prayers at the mosque every night, envisioning an atmosphere filled with devotion, unity, and tranquility.
Reality: While many do attend Taraweeh regularly, others struggle with exhaustion after long work hours, physical fatigue, or responsibilities at home. Some may start strong but lose motivation as the days go by. Mothers with young children, those with demanding jobs, or people dealing with health issues may find it hard to commit to long night prayers.
How to Overcome: Attending Taraweeh is highly rewarding, but if it becomes difficult, perform what you can at home. Even praying a few extra rak’ahs beyond the obligatory Isha prayer can keep you engaged. Remember that quality matters more than quantity, and sincerity is key in worship.
Expectation 4: Increased Patience and Kindness
Expectation: Ramadan is supposed to be a time of self-discipline, patience, and enhanced character. Many people expect themselves to be kinder, more forgiving, and less reactive during fasting.
Reality: Hunger, thirst, and fatigue can lead to irritability and short tempers, making patience more difficult than expected. Road rage, workplace frustration, or family tensions can still arise, sometimes even escalating because of fasting-induced exhaustion.
How to Overcome: Remind yourself that the true essence of fasting is self-restraint. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:
“Fasting is not [just] abstaining from food and drink, but from idle talk and foul language. If someone insults you or argues with you, then say: ‘I am fasting.’” (Sahih Al-Bukhari)
Take moments throughout the day to reflect and reset your intentions. Engage in Dhikr when frustration arises and seek refuge in Allah through patience and prayer.
Expectation 5: Productivity and Time Management
Expectation: Many believe that Ramadan will be their most productive month—balancing work, studies, family, and worship effortlessly. They create detailed schedules to maximize their time, expecting to accomplish everything with ease.
Reality: Fatigue, hunger, and altered sleep schedules often result in decreased productivity. Tasks take longer than expected, focus dwindles, and motivation fluctuates. The exhaustion from fasting may lead to procrastination, making people feel guilty for not achieving their Ramadan goals.
How to Overcome: Prioritize essential tasks and be realistic with your daily goals. Take short naps to recharge and allocate time for rest. Break tasks into smaller, manageable portions instead of overwhelming yourself with an overambitious schedule.
Expectation 6: Social and Community Engagement
Expectation: Many people look forward to the communal spirit of Ramadan—breaking fasts together, attending Islamic lectures, and engaging in charity work. Families and friends plan to host Iftar gatherings, visit mosques, and strengthen bonds with loved ones.
Reality: In today’s fast-paced world, not everyone has the time or energy for frequent social gatherings. Some people experience loneliness, especially those who live away from family. Others may find themselves too exhausted to attend community events after long fasting hours.
How to Overcome: Engage in social activities when possible but don’t feel pressured to attend every event. If physical gatherings are not feasible, connect with family and friends through calls or virtual iftars. Also, seek community involvement through charitable acts, even if done privately.
Expectation 7: Laylatul Qadr: The Perfect Night of Worship
Expectation: Muslims aspire to fully dedicate themselves to worship on Laylatul Qadr, the Night of Decree. They plan to stay awake all night in prayer, making Dua and seeking forgiveness with deep concentration.
Reality: Due to exhaustion, many struggle to stay awake or maintain focus. Some end up dozing off or feel guilty for not doing enough. The pressure to worship perfectly on Laylatul Qadr can sometimes overshadow the sincerity of worship.
How to Overcome: Rather than overwhelming yourself, engage in quality acts of worship with sincerity. Spread your efforts across the last ten nights instead of focusing on just one. Even simple acts, such as reciting Surah Al-Ikhlas repeatedly or making heartfelt Dua, carry immense rewards.
Conclusion
Ramadan is a time of self-improvement, not perfection. The expectations vs. reality gap should not discourage anyone from making the most of this blessed month. Instead, embrace the challenges, remain sincere in your efforts, and seek consistency in small but meaningful ways.
Rather than setting unrealistic goals, approach Ramadan with a balanced mindset. Focus on sincerity, moderation, and self-reflection. Remember that Allah rewards intentions and efforts, not just the outcome. May this Ramadan bring you closer to Allah and strengthen your faith, Insha’Allah.
Ramadan Mubarak!