2-What you may be experiencing

                                                                               בס"ד

Elul Workshop: Spiritual Growth and Self-Improvement

Introduction

The power of this program lies in your investment.
I urge you to take full advantage of this workshop. My sole motivation is to see everyone in Am Yisroel reach their potential in their Avodat Hashem.

Understanding Your Current Experience

You may feel discouraged about your relationship with H'shem, struggling with personal issues, Emunah, Bitachon, and Tefillah. Feelings of regret, guilt, and pessimism about change are normal when beginning a journey of self-improvement. However, it's crucial not to let these feelings hinder your progress.

Remember: "If you drive your car forward while looking back in the rearview mirror, you won't get where you're headed. You're going to hit a wall." - Tony Robbins

The Yetzer Hara (evil inclination) will try to discourage you, but don't let it succeed. You have the strength to overcome. The Yetzer Hara's goal isn't merely to make you stumble; it wants you to become discouraged and depressed, potentially leading you to give up entirely.

Exercises for Growth

1. Meditation on H'shem's Power

Close your eyes and reflect on the following:

• Your limited power in the world
• The incredible events occurring in your life every minute
• H'shem's immense power
• The blessings H'shem has bestowed upon you today

Practice this meditation several times daily, especially before facing challenging situations. Internalize that H'shem is in control of your life and surroundings. He loves you unconditionally and will only do what's best for you. There's nothing to fear; you're always in His embrace.

2. Communication

Share your struggles and fears about starting this program with a trusted confidant and with H'shem. Choose someone who understands, loves, and encourages you—someone who can provide the support you need to make real change.

3. Self-Improvement

Commit to looking forward instead of backward. We all make mistakes and will continue to do so. Remember that dwelling on faults and mistakes often leads to repeating them. Forgive yourself for being human and allow yourself to move towards a better future.

4. Emunah, Bitachon & Tefillah

Begin surrendering your troubles to H'shem in your heart and prayers. Remember, you are never alone and never will be.

Minhagim and Halachot of Elul and Yamim Noraim

While this program focuses on self-improvement rather than Halachic observances, here are some traditional practices for Elul:

1. Recite the entire Tehillim once during Elul and again during the Ten Days of Repentance.
2. Say "L'Dovid H'shem" after Shmoneh Esrei in Shacharit and Mincha/Maariv, starting from the second day of Rosh Chodesh Elul.
3. The 12 waking hours of each day in Elul correspond to the entire year, offering opportunities for Teshuvah.
4. Observing Halacha and Oneg during the last two Shabbatot of the year promises health of body and soul.
5. Give extra charity during Elul.
6. Strive to make 100 Brachot daily.

These are just a few Minhagim of Elul you may wish to adopt. For more information, consult Rabbi Travis's book and the teachings of Rabbi Fanger and others on the topic of Elul.

Remember, this program is designed to help you grow spiritually and improve yourself. Embrace the journey with an open heart and mind.