Embracing the Changing of Seasons:
A Journey of Reflection and Growth

As I run through yet another consecutive day, the 1552nd to be exact, I find myself contemplating the ever-present and ever-changing nature of the seasons. The transitions in our climate are more than just shifts in weather—they mirror the cycles and phases we experience in our daily lives. Whether you're someone who enjoys thinking broadly or delving deeply into life's mysteries, I hope you find my reflections on this topic useful.

The End of Summer and the Start of Autumn

We're approaching the end of summer and stepping into autumn. Today's weather is a prime example, with its humid, muggy atmosphere suggesting that a rainstorm is just around the corner. You can feel the season changing: the nights draw in earlier, the temperatures drop, and the overall climate shifts. These transformations aren't merely superficial; they have profound impacts on various facets of our lives.

Seasonal Shifts in Personal and Professional Life

For those with children, autumn signals the end of carefree summer holidays and the start of a new school year. Many people liken September to January, viewing it as a month of new beginnings—a time to reset and refocus after the summer break.

In the world of business, the seasons also play an influential role. Spring often brings a burst of growth, which businesses aim to capitalize on through the summer. Autumn becomes a period of sustaining this growth and keeping momentum before the quieter winter months set in. The industry you're in may dictate the specifics, but the general ebb and flow remain constant.

Running Through the Seasons

From a running perspective, the changing seasons present unique challenges and opportunities. Having just returned from running in hot climates with abundant daylight, I'm already noticing the differences. The vivid colors of summer start to give way to the more subdued palette of autumn, and my daily runs take on a new form.

As we move into October and November, the days shorten drastically. By December, it’s already dark by 4 PM here in the UK. This limited daylight compresses my window for running, often pushing me to squeeze in my exercise during the few available daylight hours. And then there's the cold. Running in winter attire—complete with running tights, winter jackets, and skins—presents a different kind of challenge altogether. Ice-cold conditions test not just your stamina but also your resolve.

But just as quickly as the harshness of winter sets in, the days begin to lengthen again. By the time we're into spring, the clocks move forward, bringing longer days and warmer temperatures. I use these transitions to reflect on the past season, to assess what went well and what didn't, both in running and in other areas of life.

Seasons as Metaphors for Life

Life, much like the seasons, is cyclical. We have our ups and downs, and while many of my recent seasons have been joyful, I always remain aware that challenges lie ahead. How we react to adversity, bounce back, and manage difficulties are crucial life skills.

The real secret, I believe, is to enjoy each phase for what it is. Every season—every chapter of our lives—offers something valuable. While some may view the endpoint as final, others see it as merely the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. The changing of seasons invites a period of reflection, gratitude, and even a bit of fear for what the future holds.

Conclusion: Embrace the Journey

Seasons are cycles that manifest in all areas of life, each with its own set of pros and cons. I encourage you to contemplate how these changes impact various areas of your life. Find ways to embrace the positives, mitigate the negatives, and look forward with both excitement and a touch of apprehension. Stay grounded and be grateful for the journey.

As I continue my mission of saving children's lives through my ultimate ultramarathon run vlogging, I invite you to join me—if you haven’t already—by subscribing, sharing, liking, and commenting. The more people we reach, the more lives we can change.

Stay positive, stay happy, and I'll see you again tomorrow.

Kevin Brittain