Rediscovering the Strength of Youth

By Huda Shah – Food technologist, a passionate writer about personal growth, faith and life lessons and Umm Amal – Hiba magazine team writer

Youth is a blessing of Allah (swt).- a stage filled with energy, opportunities, and the ability to learn and grow.  But it’s also a stage of huge expectations (of self and others), self-doubts, the fear of failure, uncertainty about the future, and emotional turmoil.

Most youngsters do not lack strength, creativity or determination. They need a stronger direction and purpose.

Allah (swt) declares in the Quran: “Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves.” (Ar-Rad 13:11)

This teaches us that meaningful change begins, when a person makes effort while seeking help from Allah (swt). Where and how can you start?

1. Build strength

The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said:“A strong believer is better and more beloved to Allah than a weak believer, while there is good in both. Be eager for what benefits you, seek help from Allah, and do not give up.” (Muslim)

The strength mentioned in this Hadith  includes physical and emotional strength, mental resilience, and the ability to remain firm upon goodness. Islam values individuals who can face difficulties with patience, faith, and determination. Allah (swt) doesn’t expect perfection- He wants progress. He doesn’t expect A* but He expects sincere effort from you.

Before 18 year old Usamah ibn Zaid (rta) could be appointed as the General of the Muslim army, he had undergone extraordinary training and Tarbiyah in the company of  Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Imagine leading much older and more experienced companions-do you think it was easy?

His story reminds us that youth is not just a time of pursuing enjoyment. With proper guidance and discipline, young people can learn to lead and achieve great things for the Ummah.

2. Find a mentor

Once you have identified your purpose in life, you must research well and attach yourself to a mentor or expert of that field. You can have different mentors for different aspects of your life-  one person is rarely good at everything. An excellent Quran teacher may not champion Mathematics or vice versa. Your parents and mentors will help you plan and develop a diverse set of skills and abilities.

3. Choose your company wisely

If your friends do not understand your need for discipline and focus, or you cannot confide in or rely upon them, they are not your allies in your future goals.

For instance, if you aim to be a sportsman, you have to stay fit, sleep on time, eat right and practice daily.  Your friends should understand that you cannot attend late night parties or eat unhealthy food that messes up your daily discipline and your final performance. 

4. Avoid the social media snare

As a young person you can spend hours scrolling about other people, yet struggle to focus on building your own. You are not alone.

Today, social media and digital distractions have fueled comparison and discontent. Consequently, many young adults measure their self-worth through appearance, popularity, or the approval of others. So, strictly restrict your time spent on social media platforms if you want to reach your goals. Watch and learn what supports your values and aspirations. Filter your media buddies.

5. Take small, consistent steps

Positive change starts with small consistent actions. The Prophet ﷺ taught that the deeds most beloved to Allah (swt) are those done consistently, even if they are small. A Muslim can strengthen himself by:

• prayer regularly,
• seeking beneficial knowledge,
• bonding with his family and community,
• learning skills,
• taking care of his health,
• and controlling distractions.

6. Practice the power of patience

Young people face different tests: confusion, pressure, loneliness, and distraction. Since they seek quick results and instant gratification they struggle with developing Sabr. However, Sabr does not mean waiting without effort, weakness or failure. It means continuing to strive while trusting Allah’s (swt) plan.

Allah (swt) promises: “Indeed, with hardship comes ease.” (Ash-Sharh 94:6)

The story of Prophet Yusuf (as) teaches us that hardships do not define a person’s future. He faced betrayal, loneliness, imprisonment, and separation from his family, yet he remained patient while working, preaching and trusting Allah (swt) in the worst of circumstances. Allah (swt) eventually transformed his hardship into honour.

7. Recognize and seize opportunities

Often, we are blessed with a talent or aptitude. For instance, your sports teacher can notice your potential to participate in marathons and encourages you to practice. You can choose to heed her advice and practice diligently or you can choose to pursue it later, assuming you will always be able to run the same way. But without consistent effort, patience and focus, you are likely to lose that aptitude or talent.

8. Keep assessing and evaluating your choices

A missed opportunity should not lead to regret, but to action. Every moment we still have is another chance to improve.

Covid 19 pandemic was a great opportunity for many adults to come back to a forgotten hobby and transform it into a new career. Just as a driver changes speed or makes a U turn after missing the right exit, you too can revisit a missed opportunity realistically.  

9. Think for yourself

Youngsters usually feel safer and more comfortable in ‘going with the flow’, but that also keeps you hidden among the herd.

We have reduced our expectations of an 18 years old adult to only be able to drive a vehicle or land into a renowned university. How are you different from the rest?

Youth is a trust from Allah (swt). It is a time to build faith, character, and purpose before greater responsibilities arrive. The world may encourage you to chase attention and temporary success, but true success comes from using the blessings Allah (swt) has given you timely and wisely.