The key to success is to view the self as a work in progress. It is when one assumes perfection, that she/he stops to struggle for betterment. Such a person settles for the current status quo and eventually lags behind others who continue their struggle for betterment. This can be applied to Ramadan and Muslims can use the opportunity for self-improvement.
Evaluate one’s self each day. If a Muslim manages to keep away from a bad habit, see how it can be avoided in the future. Make a resolve to repeat good habits, even when Ramadan ends.
During Ramadan, many Muslims end up spending more time than usual studying the Quran, and Sunnah (sayings, actions and life of the Prophet Muhammad). Take this opportunity to develop the habit of reading more Islamic books on history, biographies, philosophy, teachings, etc. throughout the year. Set targets like reading one Islamic book per week or per month.
College students can renew friendships and meet new friends during Ramadan. The suhoor (Ramadan meal at sunrise) and iftar (Ramadan meal at sunset) are great bonding moments. Continue to keep in touch with these friends and strengthen your characters with the help of each other. Together you may reflect, discuss and contemplate.
During Ramadan, a Muslim may find her/himself closer than before to fellow-Muslims or the community at large. Try to stay united, even when Ramadan concludes; hold weekly or fortnightly classes where every one can contribute. This can be with college friends, work colleagues, family, relatives, neighbors or the poor in the neighborhood too.
One month of fasting makes fasting in general even easier. Follow the sunnah (tradition of the Holy Prophet Muhammad) by fasting on Mondays and Thursdays in Shaban (the month following Ramadan in the Islamic calendar) and as many times as possible the rest of the year too.
