Even the hypocrites pray, but Allah says in Surah An-Nisa’ that they pray to show off (riyaa’) and they do not remember Allah except a little. This means that their prayer brings no benefit to themselves.
Do not be like them. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ would always supplicate, “…TAQABBAL SOLAATEE…” — asking Allah to accept his prayer. In addition, he would often supplicate for his prayer to benefit him by saying:
.اَللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوْذُ بِكَ مِنْ صَلَاةٍ لَّا تَنْفَعُ
ALLAAHUMMA INNEE A‘UUDZUBIKA MIN SOLAATIN LAA TANFA’.
O Allah, indeed, I seek refuge in You from a prayer that does not benefit me. [Sunan Abi Dawud (1549)]
Say this supplication while in sujood or after the final tashahhud, before the salaam. Each of us has specific needs or supplications that we frequently ask Allah for. Have yaqeen (firm conviction) that this supplication will certainly change our lives, because prayer is the deed most beloved to Allah, and Allah will surely grant us its immense virtues and blessings.
Our role is to supplicate with full conviction. Remember… Allah knows best what is good for us.
May it be beneficial.