10 Good Habits in Islam Every Muslim Should Practice Daily

Building and maintaining good habits is one of the most powerful ways to live a life that pleases Allah. Islam is a complete way of life that guides us in every aspect, from the way we greet others to how we eat, sleep, and worship. These habits are not just for special occasions; they are meant to be integrated into our daily Islamic practices so that they become part of our character.

Whether we are discussing good habits in Islam, avoiding bad habits in Islam, or learning how to overcome bad habits in the Islamic way, the goal is to align our actions with the teachings of the Qur’an and Sunnah. 

In this guide, we will explore ten beautiful habits that every Muslim should practice regularly, along with tips to build them into daily life.

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1. Begin Every Action with Bismillah

One of the simplest yet most impactful Islamic habits is to begin everything with Bismillah — “In the name of Allah.” The Prophet ﷺ taught us to say this before eating, drinking, traveling, or starting any task.

Why it matters:
Starting with Bismillah reminds us that our success comes from Allah alone. It protects our actions from Shaytan’s influence and brings blessings.

How to make it a habit:

• Place reminders (stickers, phone wallpapers) with Bismillah.

• Verbally say it before daily activities like cooking, studying, or driving.

• Teach children by saying it aloud together before meals.

Hadith:

“Every important word or matter that does not start with Bismillah is incomplete.” (Ibn Majah)

2. Pray on Time

Salah is the backbone of a Muslim’s life, and performing it at its appointed time is a sign of discipline and faith.

How to make prayer a habit:

• Use a prayer timetable or app.

• Prepare for salah by making wudu early.

• Join the congregation at the masjid whenever possible.

Qur’an reminder:

“Indeed, prayer has been decreed upon the believers a decree of specified times.” (Qur’an 4:103)

Consistent salah develops self-control, mindfulness, and a connection with Allah that keeps us away from bad habits in Islam.

3. Greet with Salaam

The greeting of Assalamu Alaikum means “Peace be upon you” — it’s not just a formality but a dua for the person you greet.

Benefits of greeting with salaam:

• Spreads peace and unity.

• Earns rewards.

• Softens hearts and removes grudges.

Hadith:

“You will not enter Paradise until you believe, and you will not believe until you love one another. Shall I tell you something which, if you do, you will love one another? Spread salaam among yourselves.” (Muslim)

4. Eat and Drink the Islamic Way

Following Islamic eating habits keeps us healthy and spiritually mindful.

Key Sunnah habits:

• Say Bismillah before eating.

• Eat with the right hand.

• Take small bites and chew well.

• Stop eating before feeling too full.

• Eat in moderation: one-third for food, one-third for drink, and one-third for air.

Hadith:

“The son of Adam does not fill any vessel worse than his stomach...” (Tirmidhi)

5. Maintain Cleanliness (Taharah)

Cleanliness is half of faith. This habit covers personal hygiene, clean clothes, and a tidy environment.

Practical ways:

• Keep nails trimmed and hair neat.

• Brush teeth with a miswak or a toothbrush.

• Regularly wash hands, especially before and after meals.

• Keep the home and prayer area clean.

Hadith:

“Cleanliness is half of faith.” (Muslim)

6. Speak the Truth and Avoid Harmful Speech

Honesty is one of the most valued Islamic good habits. Lying, gossip, backbiting, and slander are examples of bad habits in Islam that destroy trust and faith.

How to improve speech:

• Think before speaking: “Is it true? Is it necessary? Is it kind?”

• Replace idle talk with dhikr or beneficial knowledge.

• Avoid raising your voice in anger.

• Practice taqwa in your daily life

Qur’an reminder:

“And speak the truth.” (Qur’an 33:70)

7. Respect Parents and Elders

In Islam, obeying and respecting parents comes right after worshipping Allah.

Ways to show respect:

• Speak gently and kindly.

• Listen without interrupting.

• Help with household tasks.

• Make dua for them.

Qur’an reminder:

“And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy and say, ‘My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up [when I was] small.’” (Qur’an 17:24)

8. Give Charity Regularly

Charity (sadaqah) purifies wealth and the soul. It’s not limited to money — even a smile is charity.

Practical tips:

• Set aside a small portion of your income weekly for charity.

• Give food or clothes to the needy.

• Volunteer time for community service.

Hadith:

“Charity does not decrease wealth.” (Muslim)

9. Control Anger

Anger often leads to words or actions we regret. Islam teaches self-control as a sign of strength.

Prophetic advice for controlling anger:

• Seek refuge in Allah: A’udhu billahi min ash-shaytan ir-rajim.

• Sit down or lie down.

• Perform wudu to cool the temper.

Hadith:

“The strong man is not the one who can overpower others, but the strong man is the one who controls himself when angry.” (Bukhari & Muslim)

10. End the Day with Dhikr

Before sleeping, the Prophet ﷺ would recite Ayat-ul-Kursi, the last two verses of Surah Al-Baqarah, Surah Al-Ikhlas, Al-Falaq, and An-Nas, and blow over himself.

Benefits:

• Protection from harm.

• Peaceful sleep.

• Ending the day in remembrance of Allah.

Daily Islamic Habits for Primary Kids

Instilling good habits from a young age builds strong faith and character. Here are some practical habits for children:

a. Using the Right Hand – For eating, drinking, giving, and receiving. The Prophet ﷺ always preferred the right hand, and this Sunnah brings blessings.

b. Respecting Parents & Elders – Standing when they enter, listening carefully, and helping at home are simple ways to show respect and gratitude.

c. Being Kind to Animals – Acts like refilling a bird feeder or leaving water for animals teach compassion.

d. Sharing and Helping Others – Offering part of their snack to a friend or donating toys builds generosity.

e. Speaking Truthfully – Following the Prophet’s ﷺ example of honesty, even in small matters, earns trust and Allah’s pleasure.

f. Remembering Allah Before Sleeping – Reciting short duas and Ayat-ul-Kursi before bed helps children end the day with peace and protection.

Breaking Bad Habits the Islamic Way

Changing habits requires willpower, prayer, and the right environment.

Islamic dua to stop bad habits:

“Allahumma inni a’udhu bika min munkaratil akhlaqi wal a’mali wal ahwa’i.”
(O Allah, I seek refuge in You from undesirable manners, deeds, and desires.)

5 Islamic Habits of Highly Successful Muslims

True success in Islam is not measured only by wealth or status, but by living a life that pleases Allah. Highly successful Muslims often share these core habits that strengthen their faith and benefit those around them:

• Consistent Salah – Protecting the five daily prayers and offering them on time.

• Regular Qur’an Recitation – Staying connected to Allah’s words every day.

• Daily Dhikr – Keeping the tongue moist with remembrance.

• Honesty in Dealings – Being truthful and fair in all interactions.

• Serving Others Sincerely – Helping people for the sake of Allah, without expecting praise.

Duas for Building Good Habits in Islam

Along with effort and consistency, seeking Allah’s help through dua is essential in building and maintaining good habits.

Here are some duas you can incorporate into your daily routine:

1. Before Starting Any Task

Bismillahir-Rahmanir-Raheem
(In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.)

Saying this brings blessings and protection from Shaytan in whatever you do.

2. For Help in Doing Good Deeds

Allahumma a‘inni ‘ala dhikrika wa shukrika wa husni ‘ibadatik
(O Allah, help me remember You, thank You, and worship You in the best manner.)

This dua, taught by the Prophet ﷺ to Mu’adh ibn Jabal, is a beautiful way to seek Allah’s assistance in staying consistent.

3. For Protection from Bad Habits

Allahumma inni a‘udhu bika min munkaratil akhlaqi wal a‘mali wal ahwa’i
(O Allah, I seek refuge in You from undesirable manners, deeds, and desires.)

Reciting this regularly can help you avoid harmful actions.

4. Before Sleeping
Recite Ayat-ul-Kursi (Qur’an 2:255) and say SubhanAllah 33 times, Alhamdulillah 33 times, and Allahu Akbar 34 times, as recommended by the Prophet ﷺ.

Conclusion

These good habits in Islam are more than just acts; they are ways to align our hearts, minds, and actions with Allah’s guidance. By building these into our daily Islamic habits, we protect ourselves from sin, strengthen our faith, and find peace in our everyday lives.

May Allah help us adopt Islamic good habits and remove bad habits in Islam, guiding us to success in this life and the hereafter.