Why You Should “Prepare” for Surprises This August

The idea of anticipating the unpredictable can be traced back to the Greek philosopher Heraclitus, who reportedly said, "If you do not expect the unexpected, you will not find it, for it is not to be reached by search or trail". This suggests that being open to the possibility of the unforeseen is necessary to recognize it. 

One thing we have always known for sure is that August typically serves as an early warning signal that the end of summer is looming. But these days it seems August is not a warning, instead, it is the actual end of summer.

For generations, September has been synonymous with fresh starts—crisp notebooks, sharpened pencils, and that unmistakable back-to-school energy. But if you look closely at calendars, school districts, and corporate schedules across Maryland and the United States, it’s clear: August is quietly taking over September’s role as the official start of new beginnings.

The Shift in School Calendars

Many Maryland school districts now begin the academic year in early to mid-August. What used to be Labor Day’s territory is now claimed by “First Day of School” Instagram posts, school supply shopping frenzies, and the return of routines. This shift has real impacts.

Retailers have noticed, too. Back-to-school sales, fall fashion lines, and pumpkin-flavored everything now pop up in August. The “fall reset” is being marketed earlier and earlier, shifting consumer mindsets and spending habits into autumn mode before Labor Day even arrives.

Nature, too, offers its share of surprises—from unpredictable weather patterns to the magic of a meteor shower lighting up an empty beach.

Unpredictable Events in the World

“Change is the only constant,” as our old friend Heraclitus has said, and “No man ever steps in the same river twice," meaning at some level that everything that has happened ensures that it can never happen that way again.  Recent events in the country and the world have shown us that drastic, life-altering change can happen in ways we never anticipated. In 2025, August feels especially charged with the potential to surprise. From global warfare and unrest to self-inflicted national and statewide economic stresses, we have just left the beach, and now we find ourselves at turning points in our recreation, family and business lives.

Who knew the Orioles would be such a disappointment? What happened to that spectacularly promising roster of young talent and two consecutive postseason appearances?  The team leadership needs to reset and retool. For many of us that own and operate businesses in Maryland, the same is true. Surprising or unexpected events have charged us with doing the same recalibration and adaptation. Had anyone heard the term “DOGE” in August 2024? For those fortunate companies that have not experienced a stunning twist or a strategic challenge, you might want to Google Heraclitus and read some essays. The takeaway here is to prepare for the unexpected hiccup, stay open to new possibilities and be ready to make the most of whatever comes your way.

Tips for August 2025

·      Stay Flexible. Prepare yourself to adapt.

·      Embrace New: Expand your comfort zone.

·      Keep Positive: Sometimes, surprises can be good.

·      Get Connected. You are not alone in navigating this moment.

Planning Enhances Flexibility

You can be much more flexible and stay more positive if your overarching plan has accommodations for the unexpected. MarylandSaves is a state-sponsored retirement savings program that is free for employers and allows Maryland workers to plan for their financial future. However, sometimes even the “best-laid plans” face obstacles and can go “awry.” That is why MarylandSaves has an emergency savings feature that allows savers to access up to $1000 from their account to deal with one of those unseen financial speed bumps in the road.

August 2025 is shaping up to be a month that defies expectations. Whether the surprises are big or small, embracing unpredictability can lead to growth, excitement, and memorable moments. So, get ready to welcome the unexpected—and make this August one to remember.