So recently, I have been starting to read more non-fiction books which help with self-development and self-growth. It is really important to not only know how to read and write which is what we get taught but also how to speak and listen. Therefore, I picked up this book and it was quite a long, detailed and informative read. So, would I recommend it?
What this book is about:
This Islamic book is deduced from a study of the Prophet’s life. Essentially, it is about how to interact with others, from listening to an individual to how to build stronger relationships. This is vital in today’s world where many relationships are breaking up – more divorces are occurring and some people cannot build stronger bonds due to distractions like our phone. This book is surely a practical guide which nurtures your soul, makes you self aware and leads you to a historical context dating to the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).
What it has taught me:
Master the control of your tongue. Help by your speech if you cannot do so.
This is a very long read. I think the best lessons I complied is:
Giving advice: Compliment others. Only look at the good and leave the bad. Encourage them and supplicate for them. Do not be harsh and be brief when giving advice. It is advised to make dua for them, say something good about them or bad about yourself and then give them advice gently. Make them realise their wrongdoings. Remember to think from the victim’s perspective. The advice does not have to be followed in your presence. Be lively.
Character: Tell people that you love them and win their hearts by doing this. Display these emotions and call them by their name.
Keep others’ secrets and be selective on who you tell your secrets.
Be straightforward, honest and bold if you know you cannot do something since Allah elevates the honour of the ones who are humble. Stick to your principles.
Smile and be generous.
Listen attentively and avoid arguments. Remember that you can disagree and still be friends.
A woman is softened by kind behaviour and a child is softened by the balance of discipline and love.
Do not think that people are of a similar nature as they differ tremendously. Know the personality of the one you are dealing with and this will make them love you. Talk about what they like to hear, not what you like to relate.
Do not expose problems you are unaware of and do not expound on small matters. Keep enjoying your life with what you have available and you will always be happy, as you would be grateful for what you already have.
The first meeting imprints 70% of the impression that one has of a person in their mind. So be nice the first time.
Taking advice: Do not feel bad to also admit your faults and make the intention to not repeat them again.
If someone gives you valuable advice, you should take it without being arrogant.
Dealing with meddlesome people: Do not interfere with others’ businesses. If others try to ask you a question that you don’t want to answer turn the table. E.G: ‘How much salary do you make?’ ‘Why do you ask? Do you have a job for me?’ ‘No’ ‘Most people nowadays spend their money on clothes. Oh did you see Zara?’ Just be kind.
When dealing with embarrassing situations, just smile and then respond calmly as it shows you are a mountain. As your worth increases, the less angry you become. Others will defend you.
When someone says something bad to you, pray for them or just say ‘upon you too’. The best preacher is the one who preaches with his actions before his words. Do not curse them.
What I like about this book:
I like that it was very detailed and it was practical as it compared it to the Prophet (pbuh).
What I didn’t like about this book:
It was pretty long so it is easy to forget some of the lessons as you are reading.
My rating: 3.5/5
To conclude, I would recommend this book, but I feel that it may not appeal to some readers who may not want to read long books. Any teenage or adult Muslim should read this. However, I think that it is worth the value and hard work that the author has put into it and the extensive research he has done. May Allah bless him.
Where to buy the book from:
I hope you have enjoyed reading this article. This link is not sponsored. Comment down below whether you have read the book too. If you enjoyed this article, check out my other articles too:
Thank you for reading, and have a lovely day!