Benefits of being Social

In today’s world, self-improvement is often seen as an individualistic pursuit. We focus so much on developing our own strengths and improving ourselves that we forget about the importance of being social and serving others. However, true self-improvement involves not just working on ourselves, but also serving our communities and families. This is a lesson that can be found in Surah a Tawbah 9:112 which states: “Those who turn (to Allah) in repentance; that serve Him, and praise Him; that wander in devotion to the cause of Allah; that bow down and prostrate themselves in prayer; that enjoin good and forbid evil; and observe the limits set by Allah – so proclaim the good tidings to the believers.“

This verse reminds us that becoming our best selves doesn’t involve living a life of isolation. Focusing on just ourselves is narcissistic and can lead to a sense of emptiness and loneliness. To be the best versions of ourselves, we have to serve others. This can mean serving our communities, volunteering, or simply being there for our loved ones.

Serving others not only benefits those around us, but it also benefits us. It helps us develop empathy, compassion, and a sense of purpose. It reminds us that we are part of a larger community and that our actions can have a positive impact on those around us.

So how can we incorporate this principle into our daily lives? One way is to make a conscious effort to serve others. This could involve volunteering at a local charity, checking in on a friend who is going through a tough time, or simply being kind to strangers we encounter throughout the day. Another way is to prioritize relationships and social interactions. Instead of spending all our time alone, we can make an effort to spend time with family and friends, join a social club or group, or attend community events.

Ultimately, the key is to strike a balance between working on ourselves and serving others. We can still prioritize our own personal growth and development, but we should also recognize the importance of social connections and community involvement. By doing so, we can become the best versions of ourselves while also making a positive impact on the world around us.