72 Seasons of Leadership: The Cool Winds of Change and the Harvest Moon
Clive Smallman
I help start-ups and business leaders build business plans and execute them. | Business Coach | MBA | MA Management Learning | ICF Member | Professional Director GAICD | Chartered IT Professional
In the ancient calendars and cosmological concepts of East Asia, the changing of seasons is marked by the passage of 72 micro-seasons. Risshú, or the beginning of Autumn, is a significant phase in this cyclical journey, occurring typically between 8th and 12th August. The cool winds sweeping the field, the harvest moon lighting the sky, and the whisper of Autumn can all be understood as profound metaphors for leadership. Let us explore how these poetic elements of nature's change speak to various aspects of leading people and organizations.
立秋 Risshū (Beginning of Autumn)
8-12 August
涼風至 Suzukaze itaru Cool winds blow
Cool winds sweep the field,
Harvest moon lights the sky high,
Autumn whispers nigh.
The Cool Winds of Change: Adaptability and Renewal
The cool winds sweeping the field mark a shift from the stifling heat of summer to a refreshing and transformative phase of the year. For leaders, this metaphor embodies adaptability, openness to change, and the ability to usher in a new era.
In today's rapidly evolving world, leadership requires flexibility and adaptability to new circumstances, technologies, and global trends. Like the cool wind, the leader must move an organization from stagnation, sweep away the old, and usher in innovation. The cool wind does not destroy but refreshes and revitalizes, signifying a transformative leadership style rather than a disruptive one.
The Harvest Moon: Vision and Enlightenment
The harvest moon's night sky illumination represents clarity, vision, and wisdom in leadership. The Moon's glow, though gentle, dispels the darkness and provides guidance. Leaders, like the harvest moon, must provide direction and insight, illuminating the path for others.
This metaphor also speaks to the idea of reflection and self-awareness. Just as the harvest moon reflects the sun's light, great leaders reflect on their actions, learning from successes and failures. The Moon's glow represents the calm and composed demeanour required of leaders, illuminating the way without burning or blinding those who follow.
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Autumn Whispers Nigh: Preparation and Legacy
Autumn is a time of preparation, transition, and an understanding that winter is on the horizon. The whisper of Autumn symbolizes the subtlety and foresight needed in leadership. Leaders must recognize the signs of change, prepare for what lies ahead, and cultivate a legacy that endures.
The approaching Autumn can also signify the leader's recognition of the growth, maturity, decline, and renewal cycle. This understanding allows leaders to strategize, knowing when to harvest the fruits of labour and when to plant the seeds for the future.
Nature's Wisdom for Leaders
The metaphor of cool winds, harvest moon, and the whisper of Autumn offers timeless wisdom for leaders. These natural phenomena teach us about adaptability, vision, and preparation - essential qualities in effective leadership.
In the cool winds, leaders find inspiration to bring fresh perspectives and innovative approaches. The harvest moon guides them in providing direction, clarity, and self-awareness. The whisper of Autumn urges them to prepare for the future and to create a lasting legacy.
Leadership, like the changing seasons, is dynamic and cyclical. Embracing the wisdom of cool winds can enable leaders to navigate the complexities of our modern world with grace and effectiveness, leading organizations and communities to flourish like a well-tended field under the gentle glow of the harvest moon.
Be well. Be wise.
Clive