Islamic New Year Resolutions: How to Set Goals Allah Will Bless

"By time, indeed, mankind is in loss, except for those who believe, do righteous deeds, and enjoin one another to truth and patience." (Quran 103:1-3)

As the Islamic New Year (Muharram 1446) approaches, Muslims worldwide have a unique opportunity to reset their spiritual, personal, and social lives with goals that align with Allah’s pleasure. Unlike secular New Year resolutions—which often fade by February—Islamic resolutions are rooted in worship, sincerity, and divine reward.

But how do we set resolutions that Allah will truly bless? Here’s a faith-based framework to ensure your goals bring barakah in this life and the next.

1. Start with Sincere Intention (Niyyah)

The Prophet (ﷺ) said:

"Actions are judged by intentions, and every person will have what they intended." (Bukhari & Muslim)

How to Set a Blessed Intention:

✔ Begin with Istighfar – Seek forgiveness to purify your heart.

✔ Declare Your Goal for Allah – "O Allah, I aim to [goal] solely for Your pleasure."

✔ Avoid Showing Off – Keep goals private unless sharing benefits others.

📌 Example:

❌ "I want to read Quran to impress my friends."

✅ "I will recite Quran daily to draw closer to You, Ya Allah."

2. Follow the Prophet’s (ﷺ) Goal-Setting Model

The Sunnah provides a perfect blueprint for balanced ambitions:

A. Worship Goals

Quran: "I will complete one khatam in 3 months."

Salah: "I’ll pray Tahajjud twice weekly."

Dhikr: "100x ‘SubhanAllah’ daily after Fajr."

B. Self-Improvement Goals

Character: "I’ll lower my gaze and avoid gossip."

Health: "I’ll fast Sunnah days (Mondays/Thursdays)."

C. Social Goals

Family: "I’ll call my parents every Friday."

Charity: "I’ll feed a homeless person monthly."

📌 Pro Tip: Use the S.M.A.R.T. method (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound).

3. Tie Goals to the Five Purposes of Shariah (Maqasid)

Ensure your resolutions align with Islam’s core objectives:

Deen (Faith) – "I’ll study one hadith daily."

Nafs (Self) – "I’ll quit smoking by Ramadan."

Aql (Intellect) – "I’ll read one Islamic book monthly."

Nasl (Family) – "I’ll host weekly family tafseer sessions."

Mal (Wealth) – "I’ll automate Zakat payments."

📌 Warning: Avoid goals that contradict Islam (e.g., "I’ll earn more through haram jobs").

4. Seek Allah’s Help Through Dua & Reliance (Tawakkul)

The Prophet (ﷺ) taught:

"Be mindful of Allah, and He will protect you. […] If you ask, ask Allah. If you seek help, seek it from Allah." (Tirmidhi)

Powerful Duas for Goal Success:

For Consistency:

"Allahumma inni a’udhu bika min al-ajzi wal-kasali"

("O Allah, I seek refuge in You from helplessness and laziness.")

For Barakah:

"Allahumma barik li fi waqti wa amali"

("O Allah, bless my time and efforts.")

📌 Action: Write your goals in a "Dua Journal" and revisit them in sujood.

5. Track Progress & Repent Quickly If You Slip

Weekly Check: "Did I recite Quran 5x this week?"

Accountability Partner: Pair with a friend for mutual encouragement.

Tawbah: If you fail, say "Astaghfirullah" and restart immediately.

"Allah loves those who repent and those who purify themselves." (Quran 2:222)

6. Celebrate Small Wins Islamically

Reward progress without pride:

✔ Give sadaqah after completing a goal.

✔ Perform 2 rak’ahs of shukr (gratitude prayer).

✔ Share knowledge gained to benefit others.

📌 Avoid: Boasting on social media.

Final Motivation: Your Year, Your Legacy

The companions didn’t change the world overnight—they started with small, consistent steps.

🌙 Tonight’s Action:

List 3 goals (Worship, Self, Social).

Recite this dua:

"Allahumma inna nas’aluka iymanan daiman, wa nas’aluka qalban khaashi’an"

("O Allah, we ask You for everlasting faith and a humble heart.")

"So race to [all that is] good!" (Quran 2:148)