First, I want to start by thanking you, the dear reader for taking the time to read and engage with what I am hoping will be a topical and interesting discussion. The idea behind this blog came out of my personal desire as someone living in the west, to balance my desire to live within authentic Islamic principles and guidelines while working towards financial sustainability and ultimately independence.
I believe that by focusing on ethical behavior, frugality and financial independence I will have more life balance and time to focus on my spiritual and religious interests and obligations.
A core part of Islamic doctrine is “detaching one’s heart from the love of worldly affairs” which I believe perfectly aligns with the ultimate goal of financial independence. It represents getting out of the rat race and focusing on quality of life as opposed to quantity of stuff. I want to spend more time volunteering and helping both my local and the global community with whatever I can offer; but this can only be done if I am successful at finding a sustainable way to leave that also integrates into my belief system.
I want to bring the global community of Muslims who think like me together to share a positive, growth-minded outlook and utilize the time we have on the earth to becoming better people, fathers, mothers, sons, daughters and ultimately a better Ummah (community). I will look to provide advice, ask others who are more knowledgeable than me as well as attempt to reduce the stigma associated with living as a Muslim in the west while dealing with Islamic financial principles.
So, who am I? I am a first-generation born Canadian from immigrant parents in my mid-thirties with a loving family, children and an MBA. I work in business strategy and consulting sectors and am passionate about connecting people together for the common (and greater) good. My only ask from my readers is to come with a positive mind set and open heart to help develop a supportive community. As I wrap up my initial post, I will pose a question; what type of topics would you like to explore when it comes Islamic financial independence?