In this episode of The Thinking Youth Podcast, we speak with Dr. Daanish Mahmood about productivity, procrastination, addiction, discipline, and faith.

We start by diagnosing why so many people feel lazy, unmotivated, and constantly behind despite knowing exactly what they need to do. Dr. Daanish explains how procrastination is rooted in fear, how modern apps are deliberately designed to hijack attention, and why endless scrolling quietly destroys discipline and focus.

The conversation then moves into practical systems that actually work. Daily planning, breaking tasks into frictionless steps, designing an inviting workspace, managing decision fatigue, habit cues, caffeine timing, and making good habits easier than bad ones. This is not motivational talk. It is behavioural strategy grounded in real life.

We also explore discipline through faith. The role of Fajr in building consistency, why Islam is a religion of structure, and how the Quran is meant for everyone through reflection and tadabbur, not only for scholars. The discussion highlights how routine, identity, and worship shape long-term change.

Difficult topics are addressed directly. Pornography exposure at a young age, addiction cycles, shame, relapse, and why Islam never closes the door on transformation. Dr. Daanish speaks openly about recovery, salah, and how real change happens gradually, not overnight.

We close with mental health. Anxiety, depression, therapy, and faith are not in opposition. Seeking professional help is encouraged, and waiting until things become unbearable is often the real problem.

This episode is for anyone struggling with distraction, burnout, bad habits, or a loss of structure and purpose.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Midweek Catchup: Grey Roots, Runny Noses & Holding Your Breath (Literally)