A Year of Growth: Confronting My Worst Enemy

Growth isn’t easy but definitely worth it.

Photo by Andrew Small on Unsplash

This year has been a battle—mostly with myself. I’ve realized that the harshest voice in my life wasn’t from the outside. It was my own. Self-doubt, that whisper of inadequacy, was always ready to remind me of my flaws: You’re not good enough. You can’t do this. Why even try?

For years, I let that voice hold me back. It sabotaged my dreams, drowned out my intentions, and left me feeling stuck. I became my own worst enemy, allowing fear and doubt to shape my decisions—or lack of them. But this year, something shifted.

I leaned into muhasabah—self-reflection with purpose. Instead of letting that inner critic have the last word, I began asking myself harder, more honest questions:

• Why do I doubt myself?

• What am I afraid of?

• What strengths has Allah already given me that I’m ignoring?

Slowly, I saw the truth: my doubts were lies, distractions designed to keep me from fulfilling my purpose. By holding myself accountable—without judgment—I started to uncover my potential. I learned to trust Allah’s plan more than my fears.

Photo by Johann Siemens on Unsplash

The result? Growth beyond what I thought was possible. I completed projects I’d been avoiding, deepened my relationship with Allah, and even began writing a book I’d been dreaming about for years. And now, as the year closes, I’m filled with gratitude—not just for what I achieved, but for what I’ve learned about resilience, surrender, and intentional living.

Reflect and Plan for Growth

As the new year approaches, I invite you to take some time for muhasabah. Here are a few reflective questions to help you review your year and set meaningful intentions for the next:

Reflect on the Past Year:

1. What was my greatest achievement this year, and how did it bring me closer to Allah?

2. What challenges did I face, and what lessons did they teach me about myself?

3. What habits or distractions held me back, and how can I address them moving forward?

4. What moments brought me peace, joy, or a sense of fulfillment?

Plan for the Year Ahead:

Quarter 1 (Jan–Mar):

• What is one small habit I can start to strengthen my connection with Allah?

• What project or goal can I focus on to build momentum?

Quarter 2 (Apr–Jun):

• How can I sustain the habits I started in Q1?

• What relationships in my life need more attention and care?

Quarter 3 (Jul–Sep):

• What mid-year adjustments might I need to make to stay on track?

• What personal strengths can I use to overcome obstacles?

Quarter 4 (Oct–Dec):

• What is one area I want to focus on before the year ends?

• How can I express gratitude for the progress I’ve made?

Remember, growth isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. The voice of self-doubt may whisper, but through reflection, intention, and trust in Allah, you can write a new story for yourself.

May the year ahead bring you clarity, strength, and nearness to Allah, Ameen.

Much love,

Nour