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We often find ourselves battling habits that hold us back.

These habits can feel like chains, binding us to patterns of behavior that distance us from Allah and our higher purpose.

Allah describes Shaytan as “one who slinks away”—a being who whispers temptations justifies our missteps, and then retreats to watch as we stumble.

Shaytan’s strategy is subtle yet effective: he makes sin appear insignificant, providing us with excuses and justifications.

“It’s not that bad,” he whispers.

“Everyone else is doing it.” “I’m just trying to fit in.” 

These whispers are designed to lower our guard.

But Allah has given us the tools to resist these temptations.

One of the most powerful tools is the ability to control our environment.

This idea is rooted in Islamic teachings and supported by modern habit formation research.

In his book Atomic Habits, James Clear highlights a fascinating case study from the Vietnam War.

During the war, 35% of American soldiers tried heroin, and 20% became addicted.

Yet, when these soldiers returned home, only 5% relapsed within the first year.

Why?

Because their environment changed, they were no longer surrounded by the cues and triggers that fueled their addiction.

This study challenges the common assumption that addiction—or any bad habit—is solely a matter of willpower.

While moral responsibility and self-control are critical, the environment may play an even more important role.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized this principle in numerous teachings.

For example, he advised us to avoid even approaching haram (forbidden) actions, saying, “Whoever protects himself from suspicious matters saves his religion and his honor. (Sahih al-Bukhari 52)

Consider the story of the man who killed 99 people.

When he sought forgiveness, a scholar told him to leave his environment and move to a place of righteousness.

Though he died on the way, his sincere intention and effort to change his surroundings earned him Allah’s mercy.

Allah says in the Quran: {Do not go near adultery. It is truly a shameful deed and an evil way..} (Quran 17:32)

Notice that Allah does not simply say, “Do not commit zina.” He says, “Do not even go near it.” 

This is a powerful reminder to create barriers between ourselves and sin, to avoid situations where temptation might overpower us.

So, how can we apply this wisdom in our daily lives? Here are three practical steps:

1. Identify Triggers and Cues
   Reflect on the environments, people, or situations that lead you toward sinful habits. Are there certain places, social circles, or even digital spaces that make it harder to resist temptation? Once you identify these triggers, minimize your exposure to them.

2. Create a Disciplined Environment
   Surround yourself with reminders of Allah. Increase the visibility of good habits. For instance, keep a Quran on your desk, set reminders for Salah, or surround yourself with righteous companions.

3. Replace Bad Habits with Good Ones
   Breaking a habit is not just about stopping the behavior but replacing it with something positive. If you struggle with wasting time on social media, replace it with interesting lectures or a good book.

The journey to self-control is not easy, but it is deeply rewarding.

Remember, the most disciplined people are not those who rely solely on willpower but those who create environments that support their goals.