How to Achieve Success in Islam (Part 2)
In Part 1, we learned that Islam defines true success as attaining Paradise and being saved from Hellfire. Worldly success is temporary, while the real and lasting success is what comes after death. Allah promises Paradise for those who obey Him, and with it comes peace, contentment, and eternal reward.
Islam also teaches that a good life is not limited to the Hereafter alone. A believer who follows the guidance of the Qur’an and the authentic teachings of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ can experience stability, peace, and purpose in this life as well.
Righteousness
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ defined righteousness by saying that it is what brings peace to the heart and calmness to the soul, while sin is what causes doubt and discomfort within a person.
Righteousness includes obedience to Allah, sincerity in worship, and performing acts such as (prayer), charity, and fasting with a pure intention.
Allah says:
“A righteous life brings inner stability, clarity of conscience, and ultimately leads to Paradise.
Kindness
A believer is known for kindness, generosity, and concern for others. They actively seek to help those in need and promote good among people.
Allah says:
“There is no good in much of their private conversation except those who enjoin charity, good deeds, or reconciliation between people. Whoever does that seeking the pleasure of Allah—We will grant him a great reward.” (Qur’an 4:114)
“A heart filled with kindness and sincerity is one of the signs of real success.
Remembering Allah
One of the greatest sources of inner peace is the remembrance of Allah (dhikr). It brings calmness, reduces anxiety, and helps a person stay focused on their purpose in life.
“Indeed, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.” (Qur’an 13:28)
Although life includes stress and challenges, the believer responds by turning back to Allah, remembering His names and attributes, and finding stability through faith.
Trust in Allah
True success also depends on trusting Allah and accepting His decree.
Allah says:
“And whoever puts their trust in Allah, He is sufficient for him.” (Qur’an 65:3)
Allah also says:
A Final Word on Setbacks
What people often consider failure in this life is not necessarily failure in the eyes of Allah. Real success is measured by faith, patience, and the final outcome in the Hereafter.
“A believer avoids regretful thoughts like “If only I had done…” because such thinking weakens patience and opens the door to frustration and doubt. Instead, they accept Allah’s decree and continue striving.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“The strong believer is better and more beloved to Allah than the weak believer… If something happens to you, do not say: ‘If only I had done such-and-such,’ rather say: ‘Allah has decreed, and what He wills, He does,’ for ‘if only’ opens the door to Shaytan.”
Conclusion
Islam guides humanity toward a clear path of success in this life and the next. However, the ultimate focus remains the Hereafter, where true success is defined.
“Whoever is saved from the Fire and admitted to Paradise has indeed succeeded.” (Qur’an 3:185)