Parashat Tzav: A Powerful Game Plan for Personal and Professional Success

“Preparation builds confidence and competence.”

Parashat Tzav, which continues the discussion of the sacrificial service in the Mishkan, offers several powerful themes that can be translated into a personal "game plan for success." Here's a breakdown of ideas you can draw from the parashah to build a success-oriented mindset and strategy: 

1. Consistency and Daily Habits - The Perpetual Fire

“A fire shall be kept burning on the altar continually; it shall not go out.” (Vayikra 6:6)

*Lesson: Success requires daily effort and consistent energy, even when no one is watching. Just as the fire on the altar must never be extinguished, your inner drive–your passion, purpose, and commitment–must be nurtured daily.

*Action Plan: Build a daily routine that aligns with your goals. Create morning and evening routines that “keep your fire burning”, such as moments of reflection, planning, gratitude, or learning. Show up every day, even when motivation is low. Small, consistent actions compound into big results.

2. Attention to Detail - The Offerings

Parashat Tzav goes into great detail about how each offering is brought, who eats it, when, and where.

*Lesson: Success isn’t just about big ideas–it’s in the execution. Paying attention to details, being diligent, and staying organized sets you apart.

*Action Plan: Break your big goal into smaller tasks. Track your progress. Ask: Am I doing the small things right?

3. Taking Out the Ashes

A unique command in this parashah: the kohan (priest) must first remove the ashes before starting fresh sacrifices (Vayikra 6:3).

*Lesson: Clear out what no longer serves you. Let go of past mistakes, outdated goals, or unproductive habits. You can’t grow if you’re cluttered with yesterday’s baggage.

*Action plan: Make a list of habits, mindsets, or distractions you need to “clear out” before progressing.

4, Sacrifice and Commitment

The idea of korbanot (offerings) is rooted in the word karov (to come close). The sacrificial system was about devotion and drawing closer to purpose.

*Lesson: Success requires sacrifice–of time, comfort, distraction–to grow closer to your purpose.

*Action Plan: Identify what you’re willing to give up to get what you want. Be honest about your priorities.

5. Preparation and Readiness - The Inauguration of the Kohanim

The parashah includes the seven-day inauguration of the kohanim (priests)--a process of preparation before stepping into service.

*Lesson: Don’t rush the process. Preparation builds confidence and competence.

*Action Plan: Invest in learning, training, and mental readiness. Ask: What skills or tools do I need to develop to succeed?

6. Gratitude Offering

The korban todah (thanksgiving offering) teaches the importance of recognizing and celebrating the good – especially after overcoming difficulty (Vayikra 7:12).

*Lesson: Celebrate wins – even small ones.  A thankful mindset attracts more positivity and keeps you motivated.

*Action Plan: End each week with a “success reflection”: What went well? What are you thankful for? What progress did you make?

7. Community and Service

The kohan doesn’t serve for personal glory – it’s all about the community. Success in Parashat Tzav is measured by impact and service.

*Lesson: Align your goals with how you can serve others, not just yourself. Greatness often comes through serving others and doing the humble, behind-the-scenes work no one sees.  

*Action Plan: Revisit your “why”. How does your success positively affect others? Who can you help along the way? Keep ego in check. Focus more on contribution than recognition.

Find mentors, partners, or communities that lift you up and share your values.

Sample Game Plan for Success Inspired by Tzav:

1. Vision: Define your altar–what is your goal or purpose?

2. Daily Fire: Establish 2-3 nonnegotiable daily actions that move you closer.

3. Attention to Detail: Create a weekly checklist to track progress and execution.

4. Humility and Service: Write one way each week to help or elevate someone else in your journey.

5. Sacrifice: List your top three time-wasters or comfort habits–and commit to replacing them.

6. Preparation: Set aside thirty minutes daily for skill-building or learning.

This is just a sample game plan for success from the wisdom of Parashat Tzav. Feel free to develop a game plan that resonates with you. The important thing is to have a plan and work your plan. May you enjoy success in your endeavors!