SSN Life Coach

My boss caught me doing wudhu in the office bathroom.

One day at work, my boss walked into the bathroom and saw me doing wudhu.

He smiled and asked, “Having a wash?”

I froze. Heart pounding. Unsure how to respond. Would he think less of me?

“I’m doing ablution before prayer,” I said quietly.

He nodded and carried on.

Nothing happened.

But something changed in me.

I realised I needed a better way, to explain and to prepare without fear or embarrasment.

So I put one together.

✅ Perform wudhu at home before leaving
✅ Keep a collapsible bottle or portable bidet in your bag
✅ Bring hotel-style slippers, they light and flat
✅ Use the disabled toilet where possible, more space, more privacy
✅ Wipe over socks (if your madhab allows)

No awkwardness. No long clean-up. No skipping salah.

Does your workplace have wudhu facilities?

If not, you’ll need creativity, not permission.

You don’t need perfect conditions to keep perfect faith.

What’s one religious challenge you’re handling alone at work?

“Champagne at Christmas” isn’t a gift for everyone

One December, I poured a bottle down the sink.

Wrapped in ribbon. Expensive. From a supplier I’d worked with all year.

It was meant as a thank you.

But as a Muslim, I don’t drink. And I can’t give it to someone else either.

No regifting. No passing it on. No work party lucky dip.

The bin was the only option.

I didn’t say anything. I didn’t want to make it awkward.

This happens year after year. In many offices in the UK/US/Europe.
Is it happening in yours?

🎁 Luxury hampers with champagne and pork
🍻 Pub bookings with pre-ordered drinks
🍷 Bottles of wine passed around as corporate ‘thanks’

All meant with kindness, but with an unintended message:

We didn’t check what you’d enjoy.

We didn’t think this experience might not include you.

If you lead a team...

Or manage end-of-year gifting...

Ask first. Offer choices. Make space for more than one norm.

✅ Non-alcoholic drinks
✅ Premium chocolates
✅ Directory of gift cards
✅ Tea, coffee, or dates

The gift isn’t the thing.

It’s the moment someone feels seen.

It’s your employee realising they belong, without needing to say a word.