The key to true change is dying to one's self and taking on the newness of life that Jesus Christ gives.

Romans 6:4

We were buried therefore with him through baptism to death, that just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, so we also might walk in newness of life.

John 3:3

Jesus answered him, “Most certainly, I tell you, unless one is born anew, he can’t see God’s Kingdom.”

John 12:25

He who loves his life will lose it. He who hates his life in this world will keep it to eternal life.

Romans 6:23

For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.