Why eleven eighty-eight?11:88 represents chapter 11 verse 88 in Surah Hud:… And my success is not but through Allah. Upon Him I have relied, and to Him I return.
[Quran, 11:88]This beautiful verse is one that influences my life on a day-to-day basis. It reminds me of the reality of the world - that all of my successes, big or small, are a direct result of Allah SWT’s will, and not a mere result of my own personal achievements. Furthermore, this verse is extremely liberating and empowering to me in the sense that it encourages me to strengthen my tawakkul (trust and reliance) in Allah as it is He who knows what's best for me.In addition to this verse, I was also heavily influenced by the concept of success in Islam, and it served as my greatest source of inspiration for the design of this planner.

Within the Quran, there are numerous times in which we see the emphasis placed on success and its true meaning. Following are a few verses that speak on or relate to true success:

...And remember Allah often that you may succeed. [Qur’an, 62:10]And whoever turns away from My remembrance - indeed, he will have a depressed life, and We will gather him on the Day of Resurrection blind. [Qur’an, 20:124]...So those whose scales are heavy - it is they who will be the successful. [Qur’an, 7:8]O you who have believed, fear Allah and seek the means [of nearness] to Him and strive in His cause that you may succeed. [Qur’an, 5:35]...And turn to Allah in repentance, all of you, O believers, that you might succeed. [Qur’an, 24:31]

Through insight gained from personal life experiences, I have come to realize that worldly successes can only provide a temporary feeling of happiness; eventually, we will all find ourselves looking for more and more. Perhaps, this is because worldly comforts are never enough to fulfill what the soul seeks, whereas by the worship of Allah SWT alone we can attain lasting happiness and contentment in our hearts.

…Verily in the remembrance of Allah do the hearts find rest. [Qur'an, 13:28]

This is not to suggest that we should neglect striving to achieve our worldly goals. So long as we cultivate a conscious lifestyle that does not become conditioned by this life, and remember to not let this life become the main source of our comfort, we can certainly work towards our worldly pursuits. In fact, it all comes down to balance, which is exactly what the consistent use of the 11.88 planner system is made to help you achieve.

A wise Muslim like yourself recognizes the transience of this world and plans accordingly as this life is not confined to earthly existence, but rather it is tied to the hereafter. So while you live in a society that is almost exclusively devoted to the pursuit of fame, recognition and wealth, your 11:88 planner will serve as your safeguard from being led astray from the right path and guide you towards a beautiful close relationship with Allah [Insha’Allah].

Words cannot express my excitement for you because soon enough, you will begin to see how incorporating daily acts of worship in your schedule will have such a profound positive impact on your life insha’Allah! May Allah reward you for each and every one of your daily efforts, respond to all of your dua’s and grant you the ultimate goal: success, happiness and contentment in both this life and the hereafter.

As a final thought, I pray that verse 11:88 will remain as a constant reminder to you that success is indeed from Allah, and that the source of true success lies in your relationship with Him.