Al Salam Alaikum 🌱 

This week, as I delved into the Quran, I was struck by a profound lesson on gratitude that is deeply relevant to our entrepreneurial journeys.

The verse that particularly resonated with me is from Surah Saba (34:13), where Allah commands: "Work, O family of Dawud, in gratitude." 

This verse highlights a unique perspective on gratitude—one that goes beyond mere words and feelings.

It is a call to action, emphasizing that true gratitude is demonstrated through our efforts and work.

Prophets Dawud and Sulaiman were chosen by Allah (SWT) as kings on this earth, endowed with kingdoms and wealth like no other. They were blessed with immense riches, wisdom, and authority.

Despite these unparalleled blessings, Allah (SWT) commanded them to work in gratitude.

This command underscores that gratitude is not merely lip service but needs to be actualized through our deeds and efforts.

It is a reminder that our work and actions should reflect our thankfulness for the blessings we have been given.

🤍 Gratitude as Action

In our fast-paced lives, it's easy to get caught up in the “hustle” and forget to pause and appreciate the blessings we have.

However, this verse reminds us that gratitude is not a passive state but an active one.

It is about using the talents, resources, and opportunities that Allah has bestowed upon us to their fullest potential.

By doing so, we show our appreciation for His gifts.

💰️ Applying Gratitude in Business

Implementing this principle in your business can transform the way you operate. Here are a few ways you can work in gratitude:

🌟 Excellence in Work: Strive for Ihsan (spiritual excellence) in all your tasks. Whether it's a mundane daily chore or a major project, approach it with the intention of doing it to the best of our ability, as a form of gratitude for the opportunity to work.

✅ Ethical Practices: Uphold honesty and integrity in all your dealings. By ensuring your business practices align with what pleases your Lord, you show gratitude for the trust and responsibility Allah has given you.

🤝 Helping Others: Use your success to uplift others. This could be through mentorship, charity, or simply creating opportunities for others. Gratitude for your own success should translate into actions that help others succeed.

♾️ Continuous Improvement: Always seek to learn and grow. By constantly improving your skills and knowledge, you show gratitude for the intellect and abilities Allah has granted you.

🔑 Key Takeaways

1. Gratitude in Action: True gratitude is demonstrated through your deeds and efforts, not just words and feelings.

2. Excellence and Integrity: Striving for excellence in your work and upholding ethical practices are forms of gratitude for the blessings you have.

3. Helping Others: Using your success to uplift others and continuously seeking improvement are ways to show appreciation for Allah's gifts.

This week, I encourage you to take just 5 minutes each day to practice a simple exercise in gratitude:

🪞 Daily Reflection: At the end of each workday, reflect on one aspect of your business that you are particularly grateful for. It could be a supportive team member, a successful project, or even a lesson learned from a challenge.

📝 Gratitude Journal: Write down your reflection in a journal. Note how this aspect has positively impacted your business and your personal growth.

💌 Thank You Note: If your gratitude involves another person, take a moment to write a quick thank you note or message to express your appreciation.

As you move forward, remember that your work is a powerful expression of your gratitude. By working diligently and ethically, you not only fulfill your earthly responsibilities but also earn the pleasure of Allah (SWT) inshAllah.

🤲 Closing Supplication

O Allah, grant us the strength to work in gratitude and bless our efforts with success and barakah.

Ameen.