How to stay productive at work while fasting?

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is one of the most sacred months in the religion. From dusk till dawn, participants observe a strict fast for the entire month. This can influence their productivity at work. Adopting these tips, from our Hays colleagues, into your daily life during the month of Ramadan will help you get through a day’s work while fasting. We wish all of you a happy and blessed Ramadan.

Five tips from Hays colleagues in Belgium & Morocco

1. Early bird

Try to start your workday as early as possible. Especially when you have flexible working hours because it allows you to stop earlier. Since you’re less productive in the afternoon anyway, you can leave early and start preparing your evening and breaking the fast.

- Yousra, Digital Marketeer Belgium

2. Eat, sleep, repeat

Eating a balanced meal at iftar (the fast-breaking evening meal) will really get you through the next day unscathed. The first 3-5 days are a bit of an adjustment but once you get past that, it becomes routine. Start with less coffee and sugar a few days before Ramadan, that way the first days of Ramadan will be easier. Also: prioritize sleep! You’ll be focused and have fewer snacks, coffee and sugar cravings when you’re well rested!

- Hamid, Client Director Belgium

3. Vitamins are your best friends

I take vitamins before morning prayers. Vitamins are important, even when you’re not fasting!
- Sanae, Recruitment Consultant Logistics Trainee Belgium

4. Take a break & cleanse

It’s important to take short breaks, to reduce stress and to relax throughout the day. Doing a short washing before every prayer also refreshes the body. Not only is this a part of the prayer routine, but it also helps to cool you down on hotter days.
- Youssef El Hassani, Delivery Consultant Morocco

5. A good balance & hydratation

The secret lies in balance: good time management and daily organization. And don’t forget to drink enough water during the non-fasting hours. You can stay hydrated by drinking water and eating fruits and vegetables that contain lots of water like blueberries, oranges, cucumbers and tomatoes.
- Zineb Mouli, Delivery Consultant Morocco

Working while fasting can be challenging because your focus is influenced by hunger and thirst. This generally happens on the first days of Ramadan because your body is not used to these new lifestyle changes yet. However, it’s possible to stay focused at work even when fasting for a whole month. It just takes a different approach to stay productive.

The best advice to stay productive at work during Ramadan is to have a good daily schedule. Avoid engaging in activities that will waste your time and energy. Remember, there are ways to practice your religion without compromising your professional activities. Have a wonderful Ramadan!

For more tips to take care of your (mental) health and wellbeing, while pursuing a successful career, read our article on a healthy work-life balance.