Innate Sense Of Good And Bad
That depends on the belief of the person. Atheist declared that he does only things for himself. So every good he does is for himself. But a true Muslim declares it (in fact he declares it 5 times everyday in form of his Salah) that every good deed of his is for Allah alone. So every good done by a good Muslim automatically counts as action for Allah. That’s where you notice my question overlapped with yours. Focus on God 24/7 isn’t possible , just acceptance of the reality that all actions are for Allah alone is enough and that’s what a Muslim does when he accepts Islam, that for now on, all my sacrifices, my life and my actions is for Allah alone (6:162). So belief is what gives meaning to our actions, it marks every good deed for Allah. But if the Muslims refuses to accept this reality, then every action of his may not count for Allah.
@Irfan76 i meant primary intention of action being benefiting his own self. his own happiness. that’s okay too, right sir?
This has been much debated. The ultimate goal is the pleasure of God. While other side benefits are not against it or rival to it.