Toward The Next Season

Due to growing up in a country without seasons, it is fascinating to observe the changing of seasons here in Japan. Take autumn for an example – as autumn set in, the natural landscape changed as a matter of course, with autumn flowers like cosmos and spider lilies blooming, and the leaves of the trees changing colors to red, orange, or yellow.

But beyond the natural, the urban landscape changed as well. Even in the lingering heat of September, shops were putting out signs for autumn-themed food and snacks, many featuring sweet potatoes, pumpkins, or chestnuts as key ingredients. As the days grew colder, fashion stores started swapping out shirts and shorts for sweaters and coats. By now, it has become fully autumn in everyone’s minds.

People describe how they plan to spend autumn through terms like “an autumn of reading” (読書の秋) or “an autumn of art” (芸術の秋). Some make it “an autumn of eating” (食欲の秋). I find it uplifting to see the varied ways in which different people bring joy and meaning into this period of falling temperatures and shortening days.

The change of seasons also brings to mind the necessity of adapting to changes as they occur. Things that one needs to survive the heat of summer become no longer necessary in autumn, and things that were completely unnecessary in summer become essentials in autumn. Nothing remains the same forever, and being aware of the changes, as well as having the flexibility to respond to those changes, is a vital skill to have.

At D&X, we strive to develop and maintain this adaptability. Our multicultural working environment facilitates a constant flow of new dialogue and ideas, and providing our services to our global customer base both requires and ensures that we remain aware of the developments in the industry, not only in Japan but also worldwide.

Changes may seem intimidating, but facing them can lead to unexpected rewards. Although I am enjoying the current season, our surroundings will soon transform again as autumn turns into winter. I look forward to the new experiences that the next season will bring.