Top 4 Tips on How to Work During Ramadan
A time of spiritual reflection and devotion, the holy month of Ramadan is here again—cue the Yusuf Taiyoob commercial. About 1.8 billion Muslims practice Ramadan annually; in Malaysia, we will see a majority of the population partaking in this religious tradition. This said those who participate in Ramadan are still expected to go about their daily duties, including work.
A sudden change in routine, along with going without food or water can affect one’s performance. But as fasting during Ramadan is a spiritual endeavour, it is also important to take it seriously and take heed of its lessons. Moreover, a well-planned fasting period can actually boost cognitive performance and provide mental clarity.
What is Ramadan?
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, also believed to be the most sacred one for Muslims. The annual observance of Ramadan entails a month of fasting, prayer, charity, and reflection, aimed towards improving one’s self-discipline, as well as practising self-control, sacrifice, and empathy for the less fortunate. The fasting in Ramadan is considered as one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which all Muslims must take part in––with the exception of those who are ill, pregnant or nursing, menstruating, traveling, diabetic, or elderly.
The fast begins from sunrise to sunset, with observers abstaining from food and water, except for two meals: suhur, or the pre-dawn meal, and iftar, the evening meal that breaks their fast.
When is Ramadan 2021?
The observance dates of Ramadan vary year after year, as Islamic holidays follow the lunar calendar. The lunar calendar is based on the phases of the moon and is 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar––which means that Ramadan begins 11 days earlier than the previous year. Ramadan 2021 begins on April 13, Tuesday, and ends on May 12, Wednesday.
In order to help you observe a peaceful Ramadan, JobStreet has come up with tips to help you maintain productivity and good work performance while honouring your commitment during the holy month.
4 tips for a healthy work experience during Ramadan
1. Plan your daily schedule in advance.
In order to maintain a smooth working schedule and ease the effects of the fast, plan your schedule in advance. Ideally, do this just after you have had iftar, so you have the energy to think and plot out the next day.
Planning your schedule for the day also involves making time for prayers, reflection, and other traditions. It also means working around the schedule of clients or co-workers remotely based in different, non-Muslim countries.
2. Eat food that works with you, not against you.
Since you will only have suhur and iftar to nourish yourself before and after every fast, it is important to choose food that will help you keep going for longer. Rich, caloric foods may let you end up feeling sluggish, while diet food might make you feel hungrier later in the day.
Opt for ingredients low in sugar but high in complex carbohydrates, as these take much longer to burn and prevents hunger pangs. Go for food such as whole grains, peas, and vegetables, which give you sugar molecules––turned by your body into glucose––and used as energy.
3. Schedule your most challenging or difficult tasks right after your last meal.
Fasting during Ramadan may help you become more resilient; it can also let you work long hours without a meal. This said, there is no hiding the fact that your energy is highest just after a meal. This is the best time to schedule those meetings or other work tasks that require high energy and some serious decision-making.
If your employer is open to letting you work flexible hours during Ramadan, grab this opportunity. You would be surprised how many companies, including JobStreet, allow their employees to work flextime during this season.
4. Squeeze in quick exercises during breaks.
While doing a full-blown workout during fasting has its risks, medical experts still advise Ramadan participants to continue their exercise routine in moderation.
When you are working out, remember to listen to your body and adjust to its needs accordingly. Keep moving to stay healthy; at the same time, avoid pushing yourself physically beyond your limits. Brisk walking, light jogging, and other quick and light cardio exercises can help get your blood flowing. This will also lead you to think with more clarity. A few stretches at your desk can make you feel re-energised.
Ramadan is a period of reflection and contemplation. Honour your commitment while accomplishing your responsibilities at work for the #JobsThatMatter. For more career advice by visiting the Career Resources page.
At JobStreet, we believe in bringing you #JobsThatMatter. As a Career Partner, we are committed to helping all jobseekers find passion and purpose in every career choice. And as the number 1 Talent Partner in Asia, we connect employers with the right candidates who truly make a positive and lasting impact on the organisation.
Discover Jobs That Matter. Visit JobStreet today.
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