In 2019, I came across a motivational video featuring James Clear discussing habits. At that time, I did not really know who he was, and honestly, he was not as popular as he is now in 2025. I think he was starting to gain traction. I remember buying Atomic Habits after watching that video, and I absolutely loved it. I have probably gifted that book to five, maybe six or seven people. It really clicked with me, and every time I had conversations around building better habits or self-improvement, I would always bring that book up.
Even though Atomic Habits had such a big impact on me, there was always a part of me that felt something was missing. It gave me the practical tools and mindset, but as an Ahmadi Muslim, I often find myself in spaces where I cannot fully bring my whole self. Intellectually, I can show up 100 percent, but spiritually or religiously, I have to hold back. The book that helped fill this gap is the subject of my review.
How I Found the Book
Recently, I attended the Khuddam Ijtema. I was only there for about an hour. Most areas were pretty packed, but the bookstall was quieter than I expected, so I walked over. That is when I saw two books by Farhan Iqbal Sahib. One was about marriage, and the other one was this. I thought, “Alright, let me grab this and give it a read.”
I started reading it that evening. I flipped through a few pages, checked out the ayat and commentary, and it pulled me in. The next two days, I had to take the subway, and my commute was around an hour and a half each way. I read the book the whole time, going and coming back. I finished it in those two days, and I loved every minute of it.
My Thoughts
This book felt like a missing piece for me. I do not just want to build good habits in a general way. I want to build them while also being connected to my faith. This book made me feel like I did not have to separate those two things. I could be fully myself. I could be an Ahmadi and be someone who wants to grow, someone who wants to succeed, all at once.
It is not just a motivational or self-help book. It is rooted in Jama’at teachings. That made it different. It is short, it is clear, and focused. There are no fillers. It says what it needs to say and moves on.
What I Loved
The book is tight and to the point. Every section feels intentional. Nothing feels dragged out. The language is plain and easy to read. I did not hit a single word where I thought, “Wait, what does this mean?” Everything is framed through the lens of being a young Muslim, making it practical and spiritual at the same time. I also liked the visuals and layout. The summaries at the end of each chapter were helpful, and the little quizzes were a great touch. They made me pause and reflect.
Just One Thing
If I had to make one suggestion, it would be that the book ends far too quickly. But honestly, that is likely because I wanted more. I was not ready for it to end. I wanted it to go on forever!
Completing the Picture
For me, Atomic Habits was one half of the picture. This book gave me the other half. Now I have a complete picture! The practical science of habits, and the religious and spiritual purpose behind why I want to build them. That is what I was missing.
Hazrat Khalifatul Masih V (aba) always talks about developing good habits and improving both spiritually and personally. I think this book is a clear example of that teaching put into practice.
JazakAllah Khair, Farhan Iqbal Sahib, for writing this. This book came to me at just the right time, and I think it will do the same for others. I hope more people get to read it and benefit from it.
Highly recommended. Short, honest, practical, and full of purpose.
