Growth, improvement and changing ourselves to become better people are always possible and necessary. But the High Holydays and the lead up to Rosh Hashanah can be referred to as 'the season of change'. There is a Divine energy in the air that makes change and growth much easier during this period. In this month our sages compare G-d to a 'king in the field' - accessable, approachable and ready to support our journey of self improvement more than any other time.

But change doesn't happen overnight. It requires introspection, courage, strength and careful planning. The process of change can be divided into two parts - the commitment and the plan of action.

There are three important steps that create a commitment to the journey of change: - belief, reflection and letting go.

a) Belief that it is possible to change ourselves: At the very essence of our soul there is a Divine spark of positive indestructible pure energy that can never be corrupted by our weaknesses or failings. This intrinsic goodness is the foundation upon which we can always rebuild our relationship with G-d and other people. Change is not becoming a different person but rather reconnecting to our true self - revealing the essential goodness that is the core of our identity.

b) Reflection: We cannot create a better future if we are comfortable with the past. Change can only occur with a significant degree of soul searching and stocktaking. Leading up to Rosh Hashanah we should spend time reflecting on the past year. Doing that will help us identify our successes of the past year as well those areas that need improvement. By becoming uncomfortable with our weaknesses we can commit to doing better in the New Year.

c) Letting go: The most difficult part of change is to develop a new mindset. Willingness to improve often fails because we still hang on to old perceptions, interpretations and values. Successful growth must come together with a willingness to let go of old mindsets, clear our minds and absorb new ideas, a fresh outlook and give new purpose and meaning to our value system.

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