How can I maintain hope for change despite repeated failures?

The feeling of despair and hopelessness after repeated failures is a natural human reaction. When our efforts do not yield the desired results, the subconscious mind might lead us to believe that change is impossible. However, from the perspective of the Holy Quran, this despair and hopelessness are not only considered major sins but are also fundamentally contrary to the essence of faith and reliance on God. The Quran constantly calls humanity towards hope, perseverance, and returning to God, emphasizing that there is no deadlock on the path of divine mercy and forgiveness. The first and most crucial pillar for rebuilding hope is a correct understanding of God's expansive mercy. Allah, the Almighty, introduces Himself in the Holy Quran with attributes such as 'Al-Ghafoor' (The All-Forgiving), 'Ar-Rahim' (The Most Merciful), and 'At-Tawwab' (The Accepter of Repentance). These attributes indicate that the divine door for return and change is always open, no matter how great or numerous the sins or failures may be. In Surah Az-Zumar, verse 53, Allah says: "Say, 'O My servants who have transgressed against themselves [by sinning], do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins. Indeed, it is He who is the All-Forgiving, the Most Merciful.'" This verse serves as a guiding light for every heart burdened by failures and mistakes. This divine promise ensures that one should never despair of reforming oneself and improving one's situation, as the divine threshold is always open to those who repent and seek change. The next step is the concept of 'Tawbah' (repentance). In Islam, Tawbah is not merely feeling regret for a sin; it signifies a sincere return to God, accompanied by a firm resolve to abandon past mistakes and strive for a better future. Every failure can be an opportunity for a new repentance and a fresh start. The Quran teaches us that Allah loves those who repent and helps them. This repeated act of repentance and turning back, even after successive failures, is not a sign of weakness but rather a mark of strong faith and persistence on the path of change. Each time we fall and rise again, we learn new lessons and our resolve to achieve our goals becomes stronger. Furthermore, the Quran places great emphasis on 'Sabr' (patience) and 'Tawakkul' (reliance on God). Life is a series of trials and tribulations, and failures are part of these tests. In Surah Al-Baqarah, verse 153, Allah says: "O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient." Patience in the face of failures does not mean inaction; rather, it means steadfastness, renewed effort, and enduring hardships. Tawakkul, on the other hand, means entrusting the outcome to Allah after putting forth all possible efforts. This implies that we must exert our utmost energy while simultaneously trusting in divine power and wisdom to orchestrate the best outcome for us, even if the path seems long or winding. This approach brings tranquility to the individual, freeing them from the anxiety of immediate results and allowing them to progress by focusing on the process and continuous effort. Additionally, the Quran refers to the concept of 'change from within'. In Surah Ar-Ra'd, verse 11, Allah states: "Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves." This verse carries a decisive message: the primary factor for change is individual will and effort. If we truly desire change, we must first alter our inner selves – our thoughts, beliefs, and attitudes towards failure and success. Failures should not be seen as endpoints but rather as stepping stones for learning and growth. Each time we stumble, it is an opportunity to identify our weaknesses, try new approaches, and continue on our path with stronger determination. This proactive attitude towards failure transforms it from an obstacle into a powerful tool for progress. Ultimately, what instills hope in a person is the belief in divine wisdom and the purposeful nature of creation. Everything that happens in life, even failures, holds a wisdom that may not be immediately apparent to us. Allah says: "But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you; and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And Allah knows, while you know not." (Al-Baqarah, 2:216). This perspective helps individuals not to succumb to despair when faced with difficulties, and to always remember that Allah will orchestrate the best for them, even if the journey is full of challenges and setbacks. Repeated failures are opportunities for spiritual refinement, strengthening of will, and re-evaluation of methods and goals. With each failure, we gain new experience that can transform us into stronger, more aware versions of ourselves. Therefore, never give up striving, and with hope in the boundless grace and mercy of Allah, take a step forward more firmly each time than before. This approach not only leads to personal growth but also earns divine pleasure.