Ramadan is approaching and while I am excited, it is going to be slightly different, considering we’ve all been hit with a little something called a global pandemic.

Things might not be as perfect as we imagined this holy month going, but I’ve learned how to make the most of it…and I have intentionality to thank for that!

Since the majority of us will be spending all of Ramadan in our own homes, I’ve listed out some steps we can all take to create a more mindful Ramadan. I realize that this can be challenging, but it can also be done — no matter your situation at home.

Shift your perspective.

If I have taken anything of value from my years of gratitude journaling, it’s that having perspective makes all the difference. We can either choose to look at our current situation as a disaster and focus on the negative or we can see it as a gift.

Ask yourself these important questions.

Now is the best time to get ahead and ask yourself an important question:

What type of person do I want to be by the end of Ramadan?

Focusing on the end result allows us to gain perspective on what really matters. After all, we are constantly being tested. And boy will you be tested while fasting, especially with everyone in each other’s space right now! Use this time to be intentional about your actions.

Ask yourself: What do I strive to achieve through this experience? Do I want to be kinder? More patient? More charitable?

Use last year as a gauge to see how you have grown as it’s a great way to measure your progress. Always strive to be better than you were yesterday.

Come up with some personal goals.

What are your goals? Do you want to read Quran with more focus? What do you struggle with most?

Pull out a journal and make a list of anything and everything! Awareness is key, as you can’t tackle an issue if you’re unaware of your habits. This is the time to ask yourself: What am I dissatisfied with?  Journaling allows you to reflect and search for answers through simple brainstorming sessions. It’s amazing how Allah guides us when we ask.

Come up with a plan of action.

Once you know what you want, set a strategic plan! My favorite system is to create set time blocks for specific tasks. It’s a simplified method that allows me to tackle only specific things in the time allotted, creating more focus on one task at a time. I work from home and that means, if I want to be productive, I need to get things done before my family demands my attention. During that time, it means no phone, no multitasking, no distractions, just work until my timer goes off. The time blocks are meant to be simple and flexible — once your time is up, move to the next one.

Remember, each person’s schedule and body clock is different. Specific times that work for me, may not work for you. Once you have figured out where your focus needs to be, decide what your most convenient time block is. Use this time for the work that needs the most focus.

Keep away from distractions.

Pro tip: Don’t forget to silence your phone or put your phone away all together. Research says our brain needs an average of 23 minutes after each distraction to refocus on the task at hand, meaning a quick email or social media check will do more harm than you think!

Situations sometimes put us in a position that we have no control over. This is an opportunity to change your perspective and make the most of Ramadan during this social distancing period. Use your newly organized time to focus on prayer, self reflection, supplications and family, without the distractions of the outside world. It just may be the most mindful Ramadan experience you have yet!