Beyond the Willpower Gap: Breaking the Cycle of Private Sins

The Qur'an is right there in the same room. You fear death and you have already repented, yet despite that, you cannot seem to let go of private sins. So, what should be done? You yourself know what needs to be done. Keep one thing in mind: a person restricts themselves; no one else in the world can stop you if you do not wish to stop. Even Allah has not taken this responsibility upon Himself—it is up to you to choose guidance. There is no compulsion in religion. There are many things where you have already drawn "red lines." Your inner self (nafs) knows what is not permitted. Take a small example: we all know we would never go naked in front of someone else. If it ever happened by mistake, it would only be because of a major lapse on your part; it wouldn't just "happen." When you go to the bathroom, you don't let anyone come in with you. Until you bring zero tolerance toward your own self, you will not be able to leave these sins. My podcast with Mugerah on Dopamine—watch it again. Remember, our innate nature (fitrat) demands this of us. Otherwise, you wouldn't be feeling this much internal pain regarding your own soul. Watch that podcast and perform a repentance (Tawbah)—the kind where there is no room left to turn back.