Set Yourself Free From the Promises That Hold You Back

Tonight marks the start of Yom Kippur – which I once described as the big Kahuna of the Jewish Holidays with its solemn vibe, 24-hour fast and all day services. Though we devote much of that time to reflecting on and atoning for past sins, tonight’s Kol Nidre services differ because we renounce the vows that we will make to ourselves over the course of the year that often hold us back.

Think about it. How many times have you promised yourself that today is the day that you will make those cold calls or get that blog rolling or contact those clients who owe you money or start your own law firm? And then, as is often the case and for dozens of reasons or not at all, you fail to follow through and then beat yourself up for your laziness or lack of drive or ambition, so much so that you wonder if there’s any point in trying again.  Kol Nidre liberates us from this vicious cycle by allowing us to nullify our vows to ourselvs so we can start with a clean slate.

Though breaking vows sounds simple, in real life, it’s easier said than done. After all, we’re only human and we are our own harshest critics. We remain forever embarrassed or ashamed of our past optimistic proclamations that things would be different this time around, only to fall short again.  But by breaking vows publicly and collectively, at least we realize that we’re not alone.

So what does this mean for all of you? Well, maybe this will be the year that you follow through and start the blog that captures a seven figure case for your law firm. Or the year that you make good on your dream to start a firm. But if not, so what? You are neither bound by or defined by your promises. Instead, every day is an opportunity to start fresh and here at MyShingle, you are not alone. Whether you celebrate or not, L’Shana Tova – a sweet and happy New Year – to all.