26 Habits to Bring you Closer to Allah in 2026
As-salamu ‘alaykum,
As the year 2025 comes to an end and we reflect on our goals, habits, and intentions, it’s important to remind ourselves that as Muslim women, our lives are centered around Allah (and Allah alone).
Reflection is a powerful act of worship. As we look back on the past year, we should ask ourselves one essential question:
“What do I need to do to get closer to Allah in 2026 and beyond?”
If you’re unsure where to begin or need inspiration to build consistent, meaningful habits, you’re not alone. That’s why I’ve put together a list of 26 gentle habits that can help you reconnect with Allah and nurture your spiritual growth.
INTENTIONS
Set and renew your intentions consistently
Actions are judged by intentions. Continuously renewing your intentions helps ensure that your actions are done sincerely for the sake of Allah.
Practice gratitude and mindfulness
Gratitude, mindfulness, and consistent reflection help us remain content, present, and deeply appreciative of the countless blessings Allah has granted us.
Remember Allah in every condition
Whether you feel happy, anxious, angry, or confused, remembering Allah (the One who is always with us) brings comfort and clarity.
Do things solely for the sake of Allah
When your actions are done for Allah alone, your reward is safeguarded with Him, free from the need for validation from others.
Say “Bismillah” often
Saying Bismillah reminds us to renew our intentions, stay mindful, remember Allah’s presence, and act for His sake.
THE HEART
Consistent tawbah (repentance)
We are human and we sin, but Allah promises forgiveness to those who repent sincerely. Consistent tawbah not only wipes away sins, but also softens the heart.
Increase in dhikr (remembrance of Allah)
Keep your tongue moist with the remembrance of Allah. Phrases like SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar, and Hasbunallahu wa ni‘mal Wakeel help the heart remain spiritually awake.
Give secretly
Giving in secret purifies your intention and allows your generosity to remain solely between you and your Lord.
Learn the 99 Names of Allah
Getting to know Allah through His names and attributes fills the heart with love, awe, and gratitude. Focus on understanding and reflecting, not just memorizing.
Attend Jumuah Prayer on Fridays
While not mandatory for sisters, spending some time surrounded by fellow believers in the house of Allah nurtures the heart.
QURAN
Tilawah (recitation of the Quran)
Even 1 minute of daily recitation is better than none. The Quran is our divine guide, and returning to it consistently brings us closer to Allah.
Tadabbur (reflection on the Quran)
Beyond recitation, reflecting on Allah’s words brings sukoon (tranquility) to the heart and deepens our understanding of His mercy.
Tafseer (understanding the meaning)
Studying tafseer through classes or guided books helps you comprehend the Quran more deeply and apply its lessons to your life.
Tajweed (proper recitation)
Learning tajweed beautifies your recitation and honors the words of Allah. It’s a meaningful investment in your relationship with the Quran.
Quran journaling
Writing down reflections allows you to revisit your spiritual insights years later. If you’re new to Quran journaling, check out this helpful video.
Surah Al-Mulk at night
Reciting Al-Mulk nightly draws you closer to Allah. Take it further by reflecting on the verses as you recite.
Surah Al-Kahf on Fridays
Al-Kahf may feel overwhelming at first. Start small e.g. listen, recite a few verses, and build gradually. For accountability, you are invited to join Kahf Fridays.
DUA
Tahajjud
Waking up at night can feel challenging. Start by waking up 10 minutes before Fajr and slowly increase the time as it becomes easier.
After fard prayers
Making dua after obligatory prayers is a beautiful habit, as your heart is already in a state of closeness to Allah.
While it rains
Rain is a special time for accepted duas. Try to make time for dua when you notice the rain.
On Fridays
There is a blessed hour on Fridays (many scholars say it is likely after Asr and before Maghrib). Set a reminder and use this time to pour your heart out to Allah.
Whenever your heart feels the urge
When you feel an inner nudge to make dua, don’t ignore it. Speak to Allah openly. He is always ready to listen to you (yes, you).
INNER WORK
Weekly heart check-in
Ask yourself weekly: What softened my heart? What hardened it? Reflect and realign.
Release grudges intentionally
If someone hurt you (intentionally or not) strive to forgive for the sake of Allah.
Guard the tongue
Pause before speaking. Be mindful and choose your words with care.
Speak to Allah freely
Talk to Allah beyond formal duas. Share your hopes, fears, dreams, and struggles. Nothing is too small or too big for Him.
Note: Please don’t try to adopt all of these habits at once. Choose a few that feel manageable and allow them to grow naturally over time.
