As the blessed month of Ramadan approaches, many young Saudis face a real challenge: how can we fulfill our professional responsibilities, maintain the spirituality of worship, and still get enough rest—without feeling that we’ve fallen short in any area?
Time management in Ramadan is not just about creating a “schedule”; it’s a philosophy of life. As Dr. Ibrahim Al-Quaid emphasizes in his work on personal effectiveness, true success begins with prioritizing correctly and setting clear goals. In this guide, we’ll answer the most common questions about organizing your Ramadan day in Saudi Arabia.
Q: Why do we always feel short on time in Ramadan despite reduced working hours?
The issue isn’t the number of hours, but scattered focus and sudden changes in routine. Many of us fall into the trap of randomness—starting the day without a clear plan, losing the golden hours (after Fajr) to sleep, and spending long evenings on visits or in front of screens.
A tip inspired by Al-Quaid’s methodology: start by defining your “core values” for the month. Is your goal professional excellence? Completing the Qur’an? Improving your physical health? Distributing your energy according to these values is the key to feeling true barakah (blessing) in your time.
Q: How can I organize my daily schedule between work and worship in Saudi Arabia?
Flexible working hours during Ramadan in the Kingdom are a major advantage. Here’s a suggested “maximum productivity” schedule:
- Fajr period (time of blessing): From suhoor until sunrise. Ideal for deep worship and reading, or for completing your most demanding work task that requires high mental focus.
- Work hours (silent productivity): Focus on execution tasks and meetings. Avoid postponing tasks “until after Eid.”
- Pre-iftar (the golden hour): Perfect for light exercise or dhikr. Avoid complex mental tasks due to lower blood sugar levels.
- Evening: Dedicate this time to structured relaxation, social visits, and night prayers.
Q: How can I overcome lethargy and low productivity while fasting?
Lethargy is usually the result of poor nutrition or disrupted sleep—not fasting itself. To boost productivity, follow these tips:
- The 50-minute rule: Work with full focus for 50 minutes, then take a 10-minute break (change posture, practice deep breathing).
- Energy management, not time management: Schedule difficult tasks when your energy is highest (morning), and routine tasks toward the end of the workday.
- Work environment: Ensure good ventilation and proper lighting—they directly affect mental alertness.
Q: What is Dr. Ibrahim Al-Quaid’s advice for dealing with “time thieves” in Ramadan?
Dr. Al-Quaid consistently points out that distraction is the biggest obstacle to success. In Ramadan, temptations increase:
- Social media: Set specific times to check your phone (for example, only after Taraweeh).
- TV series and programs: Choose one meaningful program instead of mindless channel surfing.
- Lengthy social gatherings: It’s perfectly acceptable to politely decline some invitations that don’t add to your spirituality or goals.
Read also: How to set an annual (or monthly) plan and actually achieve it.
Q: How can I maintain my mental and physical balance (rest)?
Rest in Ramadan isn’t “laziness”; it’s fuel for worship and work.
- Smart naps: A 20–30 minute nap before noon can recharge you for the rest of the day.
- Night sleep: Aim for at least 4 consecutive hours of sleep at night.
- Purpose connection: Remember that doing your job well and with excellence is also a form of worship.
Practical steps to start today:
To make sure this Ramadan doesn’t pass like the ones before it, apply these steps immediately:
- Write your to-do list the night before: Don’t start your day wondering, “What should I do now?”
- Invest in productivity apps: Use tools like Notion or Trello to organize both work and worship tasks.
- Create personal “reflection time”: Dedicate 15 minutes daily to contemplation and self-review—an approach Al-Quaid strongly emphasizes in self-development.
- Be flexible: If you miss part of your schedule, don’t give in to frustration—get back on track immediately at the next prayer.
In summary:
Ramadan is a golden opportunity to reshape your leadership character. Successful time management is what allows you to leave the month having achieved “victory” on three fronts: your relationship with Allah, your excellence at work, and the well-being of your body and mind.
