Amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life, Ramaḍān, by the will of Allah, is the lifeline we desperately need: patience through fasting, tranquility through the night prayer, purification through repentance, comfort through du’ā’, and contentment through dhikr.

To make the best of Ramdan, one should have started preparing in Shaban before Ramadan. By doing this one is most likely to taste the sweetness of fasting and qiyām in Ramaḍān inshāAllah.

Below are some of the best ways one can prepare for this momentous month:

1. Mark your calendar: Marking your calendar is one of the best ways to prepare you for this momentous month. It helps in organizing your time effectively. The dates of Ramadan 2025 are expected to span from 28th February to 29th March 2025 (although this is subject to the sighting of the moon.), depending on the lunar cycle. Keep a countdown and remind your family and friends how many days are left till Ramadan 2025 to build excitement for the blessed month.
2. Increase in your recitation of the Qur’an: Ramadan is a time to draw closer to Allah. One of the things to do in Ramadan is to establish a routine of daily Quran recitation, increase supplications, and consistently perform Dhikr (remembrance of Allah). Aim to complete the Quran during the month and spend time on Tadabbur reflecting on its meaning.
3. Start praying at night: If waking up for tahajjud before Fajr is difficult, pray a minimum of 2 rakʿahs in addition to what you usually pray for ʿIshā’ before you go to sleep.

4. Give charity: Our beloved Prophet ﷺ said, “Whoever provides ifṭār for a fasting person, he will have the same reward as him, without anything being diminished from the reward of the fasting person.” (Tirmidhī) It was narrated from Ibn ‘Abbas that the Prophet (ﷺ) visited a man (who was sick) and said to him: “What do you desire?” He said, “I want wheat bread.” The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “Whoever has wheat bread, let him send it to his brother.” Then the Prophet (ﷺ) said: “When a sick person among you desires something, give it to him.”

   One of the most rewarding things to do in Ramadan is give to charity. The blessings of donating Zakat or Sadaqah during this month are immeasurable. Set aside funds and choose a trustworthy organization like Sakinah Medical Outreach to ensure your contributions reach those in need.

5. Start reading/listening to something that will boost your iman: Boost your spiritual growth by exploring reliable books and podcasts from trustworthy sources, ensuring the information you consume is accurate and beneficial for your iman.

6. Clear your heart: Purge your heart of hatred and grudges. Forgive people who have wronged you and start talking to people you haven’t talked to in a long time. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, “He who believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him be hospitable to his guest; and he who believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him maintain good the ties of blood relationship; and he who believes in Allah and the Last Day, must speak good or remain silent.”. ‘Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said, “The bond of relationship is suspending from the Throne, and says: ‘He who keeps good relations with me, Allah will keep connection with him, but whosoever severs relations with me, Allah will sever connection with him”.

7. Purify yourself before Ramadan by seeking forgiveness: Seek abundant forgiveness and turn to Allah in sincere repentance.
   

   Allah (subḥānahū wa taʿālā) says, “So seek your Lord’s forgiveness and turn to Him in repentance. Surely my Lord is Most Merciful, All-Loving.” (11:90)
   Preparation for Ramadan involves always being mindful of Allah. Allocate specific moments each day to engage in Dhikr by reciting “SubhanAllah,” “Alhamdulillah,” and “Allahu Akbar.” This practice will help you stay connected to Allah and enhance your spirituality.

8. Take the following physical steps:
   Adjust your sleeping routine from now so that your body is adjusted by the time Ramadān begins.
   Buy your Eid outfits and gifts now. If you are going to purchase new items this year, then do it now (in Shaʿbān) to avoid wasting precious time in Ramaḍān. Make a plan for simple and nutritious ifṭār meals to avoid wasting time in the blessed month.
   Plan how you are going to give your Zakāh and Sadaqah. 
9. Draw up your Ramadan timetable: Fasting requires physical and mental stamina. Begin adjusting your diet and sleep schedule now to ease the transition. Start eating smaller, healthier meals and gradually cut down on caffeine and sugar. Staying hydrated is key to preparing your body for long fasting hours.
10. Organize Your Dua List: Finally, make a list of personal and communal prayers. Remember, Ramadan is the month of mercy, so ask Allah for forgiveness, guidance, and blessings. Prioritize prayers for the less fortunate, including those affected by poverty and conflict. Preparing for Ramadan is all about readiness—spiritually, mentally, and physically. With this checklist, you can approach Ramadan 2025 fully prepared to maximize its blessings. Remember, Ramadan is more than just fasting; it’s a time for self-improvement and reconnecting with Allah.

This year, make a pledge to not only enrich your own spiritual journey but also give back to those in need. Partner with Sakinah Medical Outreach and ensure your Zakat and Sadaqah make a lasting impact.

As the countdown begins, use every moment wisely to make this Ramadan your most transformative yet.