The Procrastination Doom Loop—and How to Break It

Source: theatlantic.com

By: Derek Thompson

When I woke up this morning, I had one goal: Finish this article by 11 a.m.

So, predictably, by the time it was 10 a.m., I had made and consumed two cups of coffee, taken out the trash, cleaned my room while taking a deliberately slow approach to folding my shirts, gone on a walk outside to clear my head, had a thing of yogurt and fruit to reward the physical exertion, sent an email to my aunt and sister, read about 100 Tweets (favorited three; written and deleted one), despaired at my lack of progress, comforted myself by eating a second breakfast, opened several tabs from ESPN.com on my browser … and written absolutely nothing.

What’s the matter with me?* Nothing, according to research that conveniently justifies this sort of behavior to my editors. Or, at least, nothing out of the ordinary for writers, as Megan McArdle has explained on this site. I’m just a terrible procrastinator.

Recreation and Fitness in Islam

Source: alkalima.com

By: Justin Ducote

As Muslims, we believe Islam is a complete way of life, providing a foundation and framework for all its aspects. In a time when increasing emphasis is being placed upon physical fitness and recreation, we should know how to maximize our benefit from these pursuits in accordance with our Islamic values.

Recreation

Recreation has always been a part of human existence. It can be a natural break which allows people time for refreshment and clearing the mind. We read in the Qur’ân how the brothers of Prophet Yûsuf used it as a way to appeal to their father:

“Send him with us tomorrow that he may eat well and play” (12:12).

We have many examples from the time of the Prophet during which the companions participated in many different forms of lawful entertainment and play. They engaged in sports like footraces, horseracing, wrestling, and archery. They spent time telling jokes and in lighthearted conversation. One of the Companions, Abû al-Dardâ’ is reported to have said:

“I seek recreation in something that is neither useful nor unlawful, and this makes me stronger on the truth.”

Subhana’llah: Fireflies (IMAGES)

 Fireflies emit light mostly to attract mates, although they also communicate for other reasons as well, such as to defend territory and warn predators away. In some firefly species, only one sex lights up. In most, however, both sexes glow; often the male will fly, while females will wait in trees, shrubs and grasses to spot an attractive male. If she finds one, she’ll signal it with a flash of her own.

– Fireflies eat other fireflies.
– Fireflies have short lifespans (1 year).
– Fireflies are found on almost every continent.
– Fireflies are medically and scientifically useful.

RELATED: GLOWING FIREFLIES (Video)

Mobile phone for Muslims to be launched in Russia

Source: rt.com

A unique cellphone solely for Muslims – with pre-installed Koran in Russian and Arabic and “prayer alarm” – is to go on sale in Russia from the end of November.

Created by BQ-Mobile, the cell phone is expected to become a popular device with Muslims in Russia. A built-in navigator automatically determines the user’s location and also points the way to the qibla, where Mecca lies.

Mufti Menk: Tips for healthy eating in Ramadan (Video)

 This video provides useful tips on how to avoid some common problems encountered in Ramadan. If followed, it would enable one to fast comfortably and enjoy fully the spiritual benefits of Ramadan.
Watch the full lecture…

“We are not living to eat, we are eating to live.” – Mufti Menk