JuaShaunna ZakiyahBuilding mental toughness as a Muslimah youth athlete requires lots of reflection (tafakkur) and complete trust in Allah SWT (tawakkul), as you contemplate Allah’s creation and your place within it. When doing this, you will learn to recognize and improve your capabilities and limitations daily.
Take a moment to reflect on the ayat below and try to remember it on your athletic journey, inshaAllah.
And seek help through patience and prayer, and indeed, it is difficult except for the humbly submissive [to Allah] – Surah Al-Baqarah; 45
Action Steps
- Trust in Allah SWT. Internalize the belief that the outcome of your efforts ultimately rest with Allah. You can take action on this belief by setting your intentions, then making sure you prepare and and perform to the best of your ability during practices and competitions.
- Improve your focus. Islamic practices naturally develop the focused attention that athletic excellence requires. The mindfulness developed through prayer, Quranic recitation, and dhikr directly translates to improved concentration during training and competition.
- Improve your concentration. The discipline required to maintain focus during prayer, especially in busy or distracting environments, directly strengthens the mental muscles needed for athletic concentration.
InshaAllah these tips will help you develop a form of mental strength that remains unshaken by external circumstances. As you strengthen your faith, you will often find it easier to maintain attention during high-pressure competitive situations.
Remember to talk with your parents before starting anything new. They love you and want the best for you, so sharing your intentions with them can assist you with getting proper guidance, support, and create a stronger bond between you, inshaAllah.
