“To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.” — Ecclesiastes 3:1

As I find myself in the final quarter of life — having journeyed beyond three score and ten years— I often pause to reflect on the lessons learned and the paths taken. The words of Ecclesiastes remind us that our lives unfold in cycles, each with its unique purpose and timing. Recognizing and embracing this rhythm has become central to how I understand a fulfilling life.

One cannot overstate the truth in the phrase, “The only constant in life is change.” This is not just a clever saying but a profound reality that governs our existence. From the innocence of childhood to the responsibilities of adulthood and then the freedoms and reflections of retirement, we are constantly evolving. Each stage is an opportunity to grow in wisdom, character, resilience and purpose.
Adapting to change is vital for peace of mind and lasting contentment. The world around us shifts in ways both expected and surprising. We see it in the changing seasons, the fluctuations in global economies, the critical conversations around climate change, and the rapid pace of technological advancement.

On a personal level, life often brings changes in our relationships, careers, family dynamics, health and the inevitable aging process. Embracing this change — rather than resisting it — allows us to remain grounded and open to new possibilities.

I have found that whatever God takes us through, it is not without purpose. Sometimes, the road is smooth; other times, it is steep and rocky. Yet, every challenge has within it the seed of growth. Often, what first appears as a setback is an opportunity. These moments deepen our faith, shift our perspective, or prepare us for breakthroughs. In retrospect, the seasons of greatest struggle have often borne the most fruit.
A key practice that has served me well is managing my time wisely. Time, like life itself, is a divine endowment. Each of us is granted the same 24 hours a day, but how we use them can shape the trajectory of our lives. I’ve learned that fulfillment doesn’t come from simply being busy but from being purposeful. Whether it’s contributing to others’ lives, investing in meaningful relationships, pursuing knowledge, or simply sitting in stillness and gratitude, how we spend our time reflects what we value most.

I’ve also realized that innovation and progress often begin with reflection. History, whether personal, cultural, or organizational, is an untapped reservoir of insight. Too often, in our eagerness to charge ahead, we neglect the lessons of the past. But by pausing to reflect, listen, observe and connect the dots, we can navigate the future with a sense of continuity and wisdom. Do not rush to reinvent the wheel — look around and learn from each sequential step. The footprints of those who walked before us are there for a reason.

More than ever, I find joy in guiding the next generation. Sharing what I have learned, encouraging others to live with purpose and grace, and witnessing the unfolding of their journeys give me renewed hope. There is something powerful about intergenerational exchange—a passing of the baton that reinforces the idea that life, like nature, operates in cycles. The wisdom of elders and the energy of youth make a powerful combination.

To those at earlier stages of life, I encourage you to live intentionally. Embrace change, not as a threat but as a teacher. Trust the journey with its ups and downs. Use your time with care and compassion. Seek wisdom from the past but remain open to innovation. Above all, pursue your life’s purpose with faith and conviction.

You may find, as I have, that the formula for a fulfilling life has been within you all along, waiting patiently for its season to bloom.

(Dr. Basil Springer GCM is a corporate governance adviser. His email address is basilgf@marketplaceexcellence.com. His columns may be found at https://www.nothingbeatsbusiness.com.)