We live in a world that moves fast. Deadlines stack up, responsibilities pile high and most of us carry around a nagging sense that we could be doing more. More for our families, our careers and ourselves. Every so often, we get the chance to pause, breathe and take stock. For Jews, that moment is right now.
Elul, the month before Rosh Hashanah, is traditionally seen as a season of reflection and return. The sages describe it with a metaphor: “The King is in the field.” Imagine a king who normally resides in a palace, distant and inaccessible. During Elul, the king steps into the fields, mingling with ordinary people, smiling and inviting closeness. Spiritually, it means G-d is nearer, more approachable and ready for us to reconnect.
But here’s the crucial point: even when the king is in the field, you still need to step outside and greet him. If you stay in your house, peeking out the window, the opportunity passes you by. Elul is not passive; it requires action. The doors are wide open, but you must choose to walk through them.
You don’t need to be religious to tap into this idea. Elul is an annual invitation: the chance to pause, reset and prepare for a year of growth. Instead of drifting into another cycle of repetition, you can enter Rosh Hashana with intention. The secret is turning the lofty idea into practical steps.
Here’s a 7-step process anyone can use during Elul to prepare for a breakthrough year:
- Reflect on the past year: Before setting goals, look back. Where did you grow? Where did you fall short? Writing down honest reflections, not excuses, creates clarity.
- Reconnect with your “why”: Beneath the daily grind, what drives you? Elul is the time to reconnect with your deeper purpose. Ask: Why do I want to improve? Who benefits if I succeed?
- Strengthen relationships: The month isn’t just about self-reflection; it’s about others. Call a friend you drifted from, apologize where you need to or simply express gratitude. Repairing bonds clears the path forward.
- Simplify and prioritize: Elul is about alignment. What’s cluttering your time, energy or thoughts? Choose one unnecessary habit or commitment to let go of, and one meaningful practice to embrace.
- Build spiritual muscle: Whether through prayer, meditation or journaling, take on one consistent daily practice this month. Think of it as spiritual training before the big day: Rosh Hashana.
- Set one bold goal: Most people overwhelm themselves with endless resolutions. Instead, choose one bold, measurable goal for the coming year. Make it specific, motivating and in line with your values.
- Take action now: Don’t wait for Rosh Hashana to start. Begin today. Call that person. Write the plan. Sign up for the class. Show yourself that change isn’t just an intention, it’s a habit.
Nachman (Nathan) Hoffman Photo: CourtesyElul isn’t about guilt. It’s about opportunity. The King is in the field, waiting. But opportunity only becomes transformation if you take the steps to meet it.
This season is not about perfection. It’s about direction. Take one step, and then another. By the time the shofar is blown on Rosh Hashanah, you’ll already be walking the path of growth. And from there, it’s only up.
- Nachman (Nathan) Hoffman is a leadership coach, entrepreneur and former CEO. With over 20 years of experience in business and personal development, he helps individuals and organizations align vision, growth and values.