Amidst her deep-sea adventures, she encounters whales, sharks, and other dangerous sea creatures at alarmingly close distances, often feeling her heart pound fiercely within her chest.

Yes, this is what she said when I listened to an enthralling interview with a female deep-sea diving champion, a woman who spends countless hours exploring the ocean’s depths.

Despite these external dangers, she revealed that her greatest fears come not from these underwater monsters, but from the relentless doubts and anxieties that plague her mind. She worries about failing to reach the end, about succumbing to the temptation to quit before her journey is complete, and even about her potential victory going unnoticed. Ultimately, she concluded that the demon within is far more daunting than any threat lurking outside.

In our Muslim faith, we are blessed with the final two chapters of the Holy Quran: Surahs Al-Falaq and An-Nas. The former invokes God’s protection against four external evils, seeking His aid once. In contrast, Surah An-Nas enlists His help three times for protection against just one interior adversary: the whispers of our own hearts. This internal demon, so powerful, demands thrice as much divine intervention than the combined forces of external evils.

The lesson here is profound, relating deeply with everyone, especially those in high-pressure roles like sales managers and leaders. A salesperson might hear a chorus of negative thoughts: the target is unattainable, competitors are unbeatable, customers are overly demanding, prices are too high, and support from colleagues is lacking. These fears can lead to half-hearted efforts, premature quitting, frequent job changes, conflicts with customers and supervisors, and a toxic office atmosphere spilling into personal relationships.

However, a true leader distinguishes themselves by conquering this internal demon. They rise above the fears of job loss, reputation damage, and even personal sacrifices. Their focus remains steadfast on the noble cause or commitment they strive for, in their pursuit of excellence.

So, let us all take heart from this lesson. Overcome the demon within, and march resolutely down the road to glory.