اَللّٰهُمَّ اِنِّىۡ اَعُوۡذُبِكَ مِنَ الۡهَمِّ وَالۡحَزَنِ، وَاَعُوۡذُبِكَ مِنَ الۡعَجۡزِ وَالۡكَسَلِ، وَاَعُوۡذُبِكَ مِنَ الۡجُبۡنِ وَالۡبُخۡلِ، وَاَعُوۡذُبِكَ مِنۡ غَلَبَةِ الدَّيۡنِ وَقَهۡرِ الرِّجَالِ
O Allah, I seek refuge in You from anxiety and sorrow, I seek refuge in You from incapacity and laziness, I seek refuge in You from cowardice and stinginess, and I seek refuge in You from the overwhelming of debt and the subduing of men.
Allahumma inni a'udhu bika minal-hammi wal-hazani, wa a'udhu bika minal-'ajzi wal-kasali, wa a'udhu bika minal-jubni wal-bukhl, wa a'udhu bika min ghalabad-daini wa qahrir-rijal.
When to Read
Recite this dua before heading to your morning meeting or at the start of your workday. It’s particularly beneficial when you feel a sense of dread or apprehension about speaking up, which can stem from shyness, fear of judgment, or lack of confidence.
How to Read
Raise your hands slightly, as if in supplication, and recite this dua with sincerity and focus. Picture yourself speaking with clarity and confidence, asking Allah to grant you that ability. Remember that the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ often sought refuge in Allah from negative states and situations, setting a powerful example for us.
Virtues & Benefits
This comprehensive dua directly addresses common causes of reluctance to speak. Seeking refuge from 'incapacity and laziness' (al-'ajzi wal-kasali) helps overcome the inertia that shyness can create. Asking for protection against 'cowardice' (al-jubni) is a direct plea for the courage needed to express yourself. When we actively seek Allah's help against these internal barriers, we empower ourselves to be more assertive and confident, knowing that His support is the greatest strength.
Source & Authentication
Narrated Anas: The Prophet (ﷺ) used to say: 'Allahumma inni a'udhu bika minal-hammi wal-hazani, wa a'udhu bika minal-'ajzi wal-kasali, wa a'udhu bika minal-jubni wal-bukhl, wa a'udhu bika min ghalabad-daini wa qahrir-rijal.' (Sahih al-Bukhari 6369)