How can I get rid of bad habits?

My dear brother or sister, getting rid of bad habits is an inner journey for which the Holy Quran offers profound and effective solutions. This path not only leads to abandoning negative habits but also contributes to the purification of the soul and the individual's spiritual growth. The Quran, as a book of guidance, directs humanity towards self-improvement and becoming the best version of oneself, demonstrating that change is entirely possible with reliance on God and persistent effort. Indeed, in His verses, Almighty Allah teaches us that every change begins from within ourselves, and His help is always available to those who strive. The first and perhaps most crucial step in abandoning bad habits is 'Tawbah Nasuhah,' or sincere and genuine repentance. Repentance in the Quran is not merely regret over a sin but a serious decision to abandon it, rectify past mistakes (if possible), and resolve not to return to it. In Surah At-Tahrim, verse 8, Allah says: "O you who have believed, repent to Allah with sincere repentance; perhaps your Lord will remove from you your misdeeds and admit you to gardens beneath which rivers flow." This verse reminds us that sincere repentance can pave the way for the forgiveness of sins and entry into the gardens of Paradise. To break a bad habit, we must first wholeheartedly acknowledge that the habit is harmful and feel genuine remorse for it. Then, with pure intention, we turn back to Allah and seek His help. This regret must be authentic, not just a fleeting emotion. The second step is 'seeking assistance from Allah' through prayer and patience. The Quran in Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 153, states: "O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient." Prayer (Salat) is the pillar of faith and the believer's ascension; it is a refuge that restrains a person from sins and grants them tranquility and spiritual strength. Performing prayers with presence of heart and devotion to Allah gradually diminishes the inclination towards bad habits. Patience (Sabr) is also vital on this path. Breaking deeply rooted habits requires time and resistance against temptations. The Quran emphasizes that Allah is with the patient, and this divine companionship is the greatest support for overcoming challenges. Whenever you feel weak, remember that Allah is your supporter. 'Remembrance of Allah' (Dhikr) is the third key element. A heart preoccupied with the remembrance of Allah is less likely to be drawn towards corruption. In Surah Ar-Ra'd, verse 28, it is stated: "Those who have believed and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, by the remembrance of Allah hearts are assured." Constant remembrance of Allah through reciting the Quran, performing Dhikr, and contemplating His greatness brings peace to the heart and reduces the restlessness and anxiety that often lie at the root of bad habits. The more you remember Allah, the less space remains for satanic whispers and negative habits in your mind and heart. Remembrance of Allah helps individuals stay vigilant and make correct decisions in moments of temptation. 'Changing environment and companionship,' although not directly mentioned in a specific verse, can be inferred from the general Quranic concepts that highlight the importance of righteous company and avoiding corruption. The Quran advises us to be with the righteous and truthful (At-Tawbah, 119) and to avoid vain and idle gatherings. If a bad habit is associated with a specific group of friends or particular environments, distancing oneself from that environment and finding righteous friends and companions who guide you towards good can be highly effective. This is a practical and important step to protect oneself from reverting to old habits. 'Performing good deeds' (Amal Saleh) is another Quranic method for getting rid of bad habits. The Holy Quran repeatedly emphasizes that good deeds eliminate evil deeds (Hud, 114). The more you engage in virtuous acts such as helping others, reciting the Quran, giving charity, and performing acts of worship, the more light and purity will manifest in your soul, and the inclination towards bad habits will diminish. This is an active process where you create healthy and constructive alternatives for your negative habits by performing positive actions. Finally, we must understand that the process of breaking a habit is not an overnight journey. It requires 'persistence and steadfastness.' Lapses may occur along this path, but the important thing is not to despair, to repent immediately, and resume the journey. The Quran teaches us that Allah is Most Forgiving, Most Merciful, and the door of repentance is always open. By relying on Allah, precise planning, and steadfastness in action, we can overcome any bad habit and move towards a cleaner, calmer, and more satisfying life. This path is one of self-purification and drawing closer to Allah, the result of which will be goodness and prosperity in both this world and the hereafter. Remember that Allah does not waste the reward of good deeds, and with every hardship, there is ease. So, take strong steps towards change with a firm will and a confident heart.