How can one overcome the self that incites to evil (an-nafs al-ammarah bi's-su') and offer sincere repentance for recurring sins, and return to the path of rectitude?

Engaging in sins leads one to another, making it difficult to abandon them. Sins sow their likes and generate one another until they become firmly established habits, just as a fish feels the absence of water if a righteous person forsakes obedience. The remedy lies in patiently opposing one's desires, seeking Allah's help, and sincere repentance. Allah helps those who strive against themselves: "And those who strive for Us - We will surely guide them to Our ways." The servant must repent with sincere repentance and frequently perform supererogatory acts of worship and good deeds that erase sins. Righteous companionship helps in repentance, and one should avoid the company of evil people.