the steps to repentance:
1. Regret:
- The first step is to genuinely regret the sin committed. Feel remorseful for your actions. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "Regret is repentance."
2. Stop:
- Immediately cease the sinful act. Once regret is felt, take the necessary steps to stop engaging in the sinful behavior.
3. Decide:
- Make a firm decision not to return to that sin. This involves a sincere intention and determination to avoid falling back into the same sinful behavior.
Additional Steps:
- Surround yourself with positive influences, people who remind you of Allah, to help strengthen your commitment to avoiding sin.
Important Note:
- If the sin involved transgressing against another person, it's crucial to seek their forgiveness. Allah's forgiveness is linked to theirs. If they forgive, Allah forgives.
Financial Sins:
- If the sin is related to financial matters, repay the rights owed to others.
Never Lose Hope:
- Never feel that you've sinned too much to turn back to Allah. Despair is a trick from Shaytan. Allah's mercy is vast. He forgives all sins. Allah says, "O My servants who have transgressed against themselves, do not despair of the mercy of Allah."
Closing Du'a:
- Seek Allah's forgiveness sincerely, and remember, Allah's mercy is greater than any sin. May Allah forgive us all.