Ramadan is an important month in the Islamic lunar calendar and we have many colleagues, partners and customers who are marking this significant event. We caught up with Adam Haq, Assistant Quantity Surveyor from our Housebuilding South West team, to find out how he balances this alongside his day job, his family and what this important month means to him. 

When asked about how he incorporates Ramadan into his working day, Adam tells us: “the lack of coffee means I do struggle in the day, but Vistry are very accommodating and I can start later or work from home if needed. My working day itself doesn’t usually change; I take regular breaks from my screens of around 10 minutes at a time, pray at around midday on my lunch, and fantasize about the food I am going to eat later! After work I pray, then catch up on some sleep until it’s time to open my fast again.”

Ramadan is based on the Islamic lunar calendar and lasts around 30 days. For Muslims, it teaches them to practice self-discipline, self-control, sacrifice, and to have empathy for those who are less fortunate – encouraging actions of generosity and compulsory charity. During Ramadan, no food or drink is consumed between sunrise and sunset which provides an appreciation for food and water, compassion for those less fortunate, focusses the mind and is a welcome reminder of personal strength and determination. When asked about his routine during the 30 days, Adam tells us, “The most challenging part is the broken sleep. My routine involves opening my fast (iftar) at around 8pm, I then pray, go to the gym, shower and eat again, sleep at 12.30am until 4am, eat suhoor (pre-dawn meal), pray and go back to sleep until 8.30am.”  

Adam goes on to tell us that the most rewarding part of Ramadan is the feeling of self-control and discipline that gives him a sense of fulfilment and empowerment. Although, it does come with great difficulties; Adam explains, “I normally eat every two and a half hours and love going to the gym so my metabolism changes enormously during Ramadan. That said, going without fluids is the hardest!”. 

He concludes, “Whether I’m telling colleagues about Ramadan or teaching the children about Islam, I love sharing my faith with others.” 

Ramadan Mubarak to Adam and all of our colleagues, partners and customers as they mark this important month.