Islamic concepts, such as ikhlāṣ (sincerity), taqwā (consciousness of Allah), tawakkul (reliance upon Him), ṣabr (patience and perseverance) and shukr (gratitude to Him),are to be worked upon privately in the heart and work to strengthen it. Striving to improve the self is basic to both religion and worldly success.  These concepts, once understood, provide guidelines to deal with stressful life events, develop effective coping strategies, transform character and earn the best of the Hereafter.