As-salamu Alaikum, my fellow scroll-happy, notification-crazy Gen Z Muslims! Let’s have some real talk here. We all know that moment: you pick up your phone to check a single message, and next thing you know, it’s three hours later and you’re deep into a rabbit hole of cat videos, TikTok trends, and “just one more” YouTube tutorial on how to make the perfect biryani (but we know you’re not actually making it).
If this sounds familiar, welcome to the club. But don’t worry, your Prophet-inspired solution is here, wrapped in some solid Sunnah wisdom and a sprinkle of humor. Let’s dive into how Hazrat Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) would handle a world where smartphones rule.
1. Prophetic Balance: Not Every Notification Deserves Your Attention
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught us the value of balance in life. He was neither extreme nor neglectful in his ways. Now, imagine this: if he were around today, would he answer every single WhatsApp group message the second it popped up? Nah, I’m pretty sure he’d take one look at our “Good Morning” spam chats and say, “Let’s prioritize, my friends.”
Practical Tip: Limit your screen time. Schedule a set period to check notifications instead of falling victim to every buzz. Use apps or built-in phone features to track and limit your usage. You’ll find it’s much easier to stay focused on what actually matters , like salah, family time, and maybe even that neglected Qur’an app.
2. Digital Dhikr: Elevate Your Scrolling Game
Remember how the Prophet (peace be upon him) would constantly keep his tongue moist with dhikr (remembrance of Allah)? That’s your secret weapon, even while navigating the chaos of your phone. Replace your “doomscrolling” habit with some soulful scrolling. Instead of jumping straight into Instagram’s endless feed, open your Qur’an app, watch an inspiring Islamic video, or learn a new dua.
Practical Tip: Set reminders to do dhikr. A quick “SubhanAllah,” “Alhamdulillah,” or “Allahu Akbar” between emails and texts can realign your heart and mind.
3. Prophet’s Secret: Time Blocking Like a Boss
Did you know the Prophet (peace be upon him) had an incredible ability to manage his time? Whether it was attending to family, praying, teaching, or leading, he gave his full focus to the task at hand. Gen Z translation: multitasking is overrated. If you’re watching Netflix while texting five friends and “accidentally” missing Fajr, you’re doing it wrong.
Practical Tip: Use Sunnah-inspired time blocking. Dedicate specific times for your tasks, including when you’ll check your phone. And stick to it! For example, scroll social media only after you’ve prayed Dhuhr or finished your homework. Trust me, your productivity and iman will thank you.
4. The Art of Detachment: Airplane Mode Sunnah Edition
The Prophet (peace be upon him) often retreated to the cave of Hira for contemplation and deep connection with Allah. Think of this as your inspiration for some good old digital detoxing. No, you don’t need to climb a mountain , just hit “Airplane Mode” and breathe.
Practical Tip: Establish “Tech-Free Sunnah Zones.” Pick specific times, like before Fajr, during meals, or an hour before bed, to completely disconnect. Replace this time with journaling, reflecting on your day, or simply talking to your family. Yes, actual face-to-face talking , remember that?
5. Quality Over Quantity: The Prophet’s Advice on Meaningful Interactions
Here’s the thing: the Prophet (peace be upon him) emphasized being present and intentional in all interactions. Imagine if he were on social media today. He wouldn’t just “like” posts mindlessly or send low-effort “LOL” texts. Instead, he’d focus on fostering genuine, meaningful connections.
Practical Tip: Declutter your digital life. Unfollow accounts that don’t bring you closer to your goals or deen. Engage deeply with a few friends rather than superficially with a hundred. And please, leave that toxic group chat. You know the one.
6. Self-Care Sunnah Style: Recharge Without the Screen
The Prophet (peace be upon him) valued rest, healthy food, and physical activity. Take a page out of his book and recharge in ways that don’t involve scrolling. Go for a walk, hit the gym, or spend time in nature. And yes, even the Sunnah-approved nap (Qailulah) can do wonders.
Practical Tip: Replace idle scrolling with intentional self-care. Next time you feel bored, pick up a hobby, learn something new, or volunteer for a cause. Let’s be real: the 73rd TikTok trend isn’t going to change your life, but memorizing a new surah? That just might.
7. Remember Your Why: Purpose > Distractions
Ultimately, the Prophet (peace be upon him) lived with a clear sense of purpose. Every action was intentional and aimed at pleasing Allah. When you’re tempted to waste hours online, ask yourself: is this helping me get closer to Jannah? If not, swipe left on that distraction.
Practical Tip: Set a daily intention. Begin each day by asking Allah for guidance to use your time wisely. Keep your goals in mind, and don’t let your phone hijack your barakah-filled journey.
The Final Swipe
Smartphones are tools, not life partners. The sooner we master them instead of letting them master us, the closer we’ll get to living a life that’s intentional, productive, and pleasing to Allah. So next time your screen time report makes you gasp, remember: the Sunnah is always here to guide you, even in the digital age.
Let’s follow the prophetic path, one mindful swipe at a time. May Allah make it easy for us all. Ameen!
Now, go put your phone down and live your best Sunnah-inspired life! (After you share this blog, of course. Priorities, right?)