Teshuva For Bad Character Traits

The Rambam in Hilchot Teshuva points out that we are not only obligated to repent for sins that we committed, but we must also do Teshuva for negative character traits. These might even be more difficult than actual sins.

Rabbi Berel Wein z’l, loved the quote of Rav Yisrael Salanter. “The loudest sound in the world, is the sound of a bad habit breaking.”

The Rambam gives examples of bad habits that need breaking. He mentioned anger as one of the main negative character traits that a person might have. Hatred and jealousy are close behind as examples of traits that really harm us.

He also spoke of being overly competitive, chasing after money and even an obsession with food that can really hamper us in our dealings with our fellow man.

The Mussar books are designed to help us build better character. But the Rambam made a point of letting us know that this is also part of the process of Teshuva. It is an understatement to say that there’s always room for improvement. Now is the time to gain the resolve to do this holy work.