Embracing Life’s Seasons of Change

By Christine Murray

As late September arrives and the air begins to cool, it's a clear signal that the seasons are changing. A change in seasons is a perfect metaphor for many changes we experience in our personal and professional lives. Just as we prepare for the fall by swapping out our summer clothes for warmer ones, life’s transitions are opportunities for preparation, adjustments, and embracing change.

I've always been fascinated by the changing seasons. Growing up in Pittsburgh, I experienced dramatic shifts between winter, spring, summer, and fall. As I’ve grown older, I've come to appreciate the beauty and lessons that each season brings, particularly during times of transition.

One key lesson from the changing seasons is that they can be both unpredictable and predictable. Living in North Carolina, we often hear jokes about our many "seasons" within a single week due to the erratic weather. These unpredictable shifts remind us that change is often unexpected. 

In a recent example from my own life during my recent career transition, much like the unpredictable weather, I faced uncertainties and challenges. Yet, I found comfort in the predictable aspects of the transition, knowing that with careful planning and preparation, I could navigate the change successfully. Just as we prepare for colder temperatures by checking our heating systems and swapping out clothes, we can also prepare for life’s transitions. 

Another important lesson from the seasons is that change is essential for growth. It's tempting to hold onto comfortable seasons, but as the saying goes, "the only constant in life is change." Embracing change keeps life interesting and can lead us to personal and professional growth. When I used to live in Florida during graduate school, I enjoyed the sunny days, but I missed the change of seasons a lot. Changing seasons help to mark the passage of time and encourage us to reflect and evolve.

Reflection is a powerful tool when we’re transitioning between seasons. Just like the first cool morning after a long, hot summer, the signals we get during changing seasons serve as a reminder to approach new seasons with reflection and a beginner's mind, seeing new opportunities with fresh eyes. 

Finally, the changing seasons teach us that they don't erase what came before. The lessons and memories from past seasons remain with us and help to shape our future. During my recent career change, I carried forward the gratitude and lessons from that chapter of my life. This gratitude helped me navigate the change and embrace the new season with positivity and an open mind.

As you face life’s transitions, I encourage you to embrace the changing seasons that come your way. Prepare for the unpredictable, plan for the predictable, reflect on your experiences, and carry forward the gratitude and lessons from your past. By doing so, you can navigate life's changes with grace and confidence, ready to embrace the new opportunities that lie ahead.

Remember, just as the seasons change, so too do the chapters of our lives. Embrace each season with an open heart and a beginner's mind, and you'll find that change can be a beautiful and transformative experience.