Hannah Omarjee | homarjee@radioislam.co.za
27 March 2023 | 09:00 CAT
2 min read

Photo Credit: WORDCRAFTBYANNISA

More free time does not always equate to more happiness. Happiness is subjective. What makes one person happy may not have the same effect on another person. There are different versions and perceptions of happiness.

Psychologist Mariam Salie says that free time is essential, but just as important is how we spend this free time. Our happiness levels fluctuate; it is not a constant state of mind. Contentment is a crucial factor.

Salie said, “Using the free time in a constructive manner or a productive manner actually makes people feel more contented, or let’s say happier, than having free time when we are, we have no idea what we are going to do with it, we just have this time, and we have nothing planned for it.”

According to Salie, a person needs to create balance in their time.

She says, “Islam focuses on balance. When you look at your life, there are so many things that you are responsible for, and for many of us, this varies.”

In a day, one may have many roles and responsibilities, but the priority, as a Muslim, is to Allah, then ourselves, to rest and recuperate. A person also needs to give some time to their family, be it to their spouse, children, or parents.

Salie said freeing up time from responsibilities creates time to rest. Time management, which may sound simple or old school, is vital because planning your week or day makes for practical time usage.

Listen to the full interview with host Annisa Essack on Your World Today here.