Setting Realistic Expectations for New Contestants
Entering a Quran competition for the first time can be an exciting but overwhelming experience. For many new contestants, the anticipation is often accompanied by high expectations, anxiety, and a desire to perform flawlessly. While ambition and dedication are important traits for success, setting realistic expectations is crucial in ensuring a positive and sustainable journey through Quran memorisation and competition participation.
This article provides a structured and practical guide to help new contestants, their families, and supporters understand the importance of setting realistic goals. It outlines the challenges beginners often face and offers strategies to manage expectations while fostering steady progress and long-term development.
Understanding the Nature of Quran Competitions
Quran competitions come in a variety of formats and levels. Some focus entirely on memorisation (Hifz), while others include aspects of recitation (Tilawah), tajweed adherence, interpretation (Tafsir), or a combination thereof. The scope and depth of the competition can greatly impact what may be considered a realistic expectation for a new contestant.
Different Levels of Competition
- Local or school-level competitions: Typically more accessible to beginners. These provide a valuable entry point with limited surahs and focus on encouraging participation.
- Regional and national competitions: Often more competitive, with longer memorisation requirements and stricter judging criteria.
- International competitions: Usually reserved for highly experienced participants, often with full Quran memorisation, advanced tajweed knowledge, and oral excellence.
Understanding the structure and expectations of the competition level you are entering will be essential in framing achievable goals.
Why Setting Realistic Expectations Matters
Unrealistic goals can lead to stress, burnout, and demotivation. By contrast, realistic expectations help contestants remain focused, motivated, and confident. They create a foundation for sustained learning and improvement, facilitate accurate self-assessment, and encourage perseverance.
Common Risks of Unrealistic Expectations
- Burnout: Attempting to memorise large portions of the Quran in a short time can cause mental fatigue and loss of interest.
- Frustration: Failing to meet overly ambitious targets can result in feelings of inadequacy.
- Discouraging experience: An early experience marked by disappointment may deter continued participation.
On the other hand, manageable and clear goals contribute to a positive experience, fostering future growth and deeper engagement with the Quran.
Factors to Consider When Setting Expectations
Several elements influence what expectations should be for a new contestant. These individual factors differ from one participant to another and must be taken into account to define appropriate objectives.
1. Prior Experience with Memorisation
Contestants who have already memorised some surahs, either at home or in a madrasah, may have a more established foundation. For others just beginning their memorisation journey, it is advisable to start with shorter portions and simpler surahs.
2. Age and Cognitive Development
Young children may be capable of memorisation but often require more repetition and support. Older contestants may grasp tajweed rules more easily but face time constraints due to schooling or other commitments. Expectations should consider the participant’s stage of development and availability of dedicated time.
3. Daily Commitment and Environment
Competitors supported by a structured routine, family involvement, and access to a teacher or mentor are generally able to make faster progress. Those without such support may need more time to prepare, and should adjust their goals accordingly.
4. Nature of the Competition
If the competition assesses not only memorisation but also pronunciation, fluency, and comprehension, new contestants should be guided into categories or levels that focus on narrower, beginner-appropriate skill sets. Entering an unsuitable category can create confusion and diminish the educational value of the contest.
Strategies for Setting Achievable Goals
With a clearer understanding of influencing factors, new contestants and their supporters can apply practical strategies to set and manage expectations effectively. Here are some evidence-based approaches to achieving this.
Start with Short Surahs or Limited Sections
It is recommended that new contestants begin by memorising shorter surahs from Juz’ ‘Amma, such as Surah Al-Fil, Al-Quraysh, or Al-Kawthar. This not only builds confidence but also establishes foundational habits for future learning. As consistency develops, longer surahs or additional targets can be gradually introduced.
Set Time-Based Goals, Not Just Content-Based Goals
Instead of focusing solely on the number of ayahs or surahs memorised, consider setting time-based goals. For example:
- “I will revise with my teacher five days a week for 20 minutes each session.”
- “I’ll complete revision of Surah Al-Balad within two weeks.”
Time-based goals are adaptable and reduce pressure, particularly when combined with ongoing assessment and encouragement.
Use Feedback to Adjust Progress
Feedback from teachers, peers, and even self-assessment is an important metric for refining goals. If a student finds a memorisation passage particularly challenging, adapting the schedule or reducing the target is a constructive step—not a failure.
Prepare Emotionally and Mentally
Participation in competition involves more than academic preparation. First-time contestants should be encouraged to expect mixed outcomes. They may forget verses under pressure, mispronounce words, or freeze during recitation. These are normal experiences and do not reflect failure, but rather part of the learning and adaptation process.
Participants should also be informed that competitions often result in one winner per category, but every participant gains from the experience, discipline, and feedback.
The Role of Support Systems
Support from family members, teachers, peers, and mentors plays a considerable role in defining realistic expectations. Contestants should never feel isolated in their efforts or burdened to meet performance benchmarks set by others.
Constructive Parental Involvement
Parents often play a dual role—as motivators and as overseers of progress. It is essential that this role be supportive, not pressure-inducing. Celebrating small wins, offering encouragement during setbacks, and refraining from comparison are all key elements of constructive involvement.
Teacher and Mentor Guidance
Qualified instruction provides both structure and strategic planning. Teachers can assess readiness for competition, recommend suitable categories, and identify weaknesses early. Their feedback is instrumental in shaping appropriate submission levels and focus areas.
Peer Support and Role Modelling
Youth who see others from similar backgrounds and circumstances progress in their Quran journey are more likely to stay motivated. Friendly rehearsal sessions, shared study environments, and positive group dynamics can all contribute to a healthy expectation-setting environment.
Measuring Success Beyond Winning
It is important for new contestants to recognise that success is not limited to winning an award or ranking highly in competition. Broader markers of achievement include:
- Improved consistency in memorisation routines
- Stronger connection to the Quran
- Confidence in public speaking and recitation
- Greater understanding of tajweed and meaning
- Increased self-discipline and focus
These outcomes are lasting, intrinsically valuable, and, most importantly, obtainable by every contestant who commits sincerely to the experience.
Conclusion
Setting realistic expectations is a critical step for new contestants entering Quran competitions. It allows for a balanced combination of ambition and patience, ensuring that the participant’s journey is enriching, sustainable, and true to the essence of seeking knowledge. With clear goals, appropriate preparation, and a strong support system, every new contestant can benefit from a rewarding and meaningful experience—regardless of where they stand on the podium.
If you need help with your Quran competition platform or marking tools, email info@qurancompetitions.tech.