The third session of the Recognize Phase explores the root causes of discontent and how shifting our mindset can bring true contentment. Othman emphasizes that modern society’s pursuit of happiness is misleading—what we should seek instead is contentment (rida), which comes from aligning our expectations with Allah’s plan and rewiring our thinking.

Key Themes:

1. Structuring Life Around Salah for Spiritual & Mental Clarity

• Salah is not just a checklist item—it’s meant to structure our day, emotions, and productivity.

• Isha prayer marks the start of preparation for the next day, setting the tone for Tahajjud, Fajr, and an intentional schedule.

• Aligning life around salah reduces stress and increases productivity while keeping Allah at the center of our daily actions.

2. Understanding the Root of Discontent

• Our brains are wired with a negativity bias—about 80% of daily thoughts lean negative.

• The amygdala focuses on survival, causing us to overestimate dangers and negative experiences.

• Cognitive distortions lead to self-doubt, unnecessary fears, and unrealistic expectations.

3. The Equation for Contentment

Mo Gawdat’s equation (adapted for Islamic understanding):

Contentment = Perception of Events - Unrealistic Expectations

• When reality doesn’t match our expectations, we feel unhappy.

• Lowering expectations and trusting Allah’s wisdom allows us to find peace in any situation.

4. The Six Grand Illusions That Prevent Contentment

We often falsely believe:

1. Every thought we have is true (when many are distortions).

2. Our identity is tied to labels and achievements (instead of our relationship with Allah).

3. We know more than we actually do (leading to arrogance or stress).

4. We can control everything (when in reality, Allah controls all outcomes).

5. We live in the past or future (instead of being present).

6. Fear is always real (when it’s often exaggerated by our mind).

5. Rewiring the Brain for a Content Life

• Neuroplasticity: Our brain can be rewired by changing thoughts and actions.

• Boosting serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin naturally through:

  • Salah & spiritual connection.

  • Exercise & gratitude.

  • Spending time with family & meaningful work.

• Happiness from social media dopamine hits is temporary, while contentment comes from spiritual discipline and purposeful living.

Action Steps for This Week:

✅ Evaluate Your Salah Routine – Are you using it to structure your day or just fitting it in?

✅ Identify Your Unrealistic Expectations – Where are you setting yourself up for disappointment?

✅ Challenge Negative Thoughts – Use Byron Katie’s 4-question method to debunk self-limiting beliefs.

✅ Limit Social Media Dopamine Hits – Replace mindless scrolling with exercise, salah, or deep work.

✅ Practice Gratitude & Presence – Live in the now, focusing on Allah’s blessings instead of past regrets or future worries.

This session concludes with the reminder that true contentment comes from surrendering to Allah’s will, reframing negative thoughts, and structuring life around salah and purpose.

Here is the link to a trigger tracker to document your recognition process: https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1U5_zNF_4W2QqR-uVrVGkzd4kuKKXHZ_V_h-rIewKbxI/edit?usp=sharing