In this article, I’m sharing lessons from the book I read in April. This is a continuation of my commitment to reading a book each month this year. Judging from the title, you probably recognized by now, that I read Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson. It fits so beautifully with themes from my blog, which includes: embracing change, personal growth and having the courage to move forward even when it is uncomfortable.
January’s read: The Light We Carry by Michelle Obama
February’s read: My Brand Compass by Terri-Karelle Reid
March’s read: Two Lawyers One Doctor by Cadine Bramwell
What Who Moved My Cheese Taught Me
If you have ever felt stuck, resistant to change, or that life keeps moving the finish line and goalposts just as you are getting comfortable, then the Who Moved My Cheese? is a must-read. It is a deceptively simple story about how we respond to the inevitable changes in life.
Related Post: The Truth About Comfort Zones And Why You Shouldn’t Dwell There
As someone who champions growth, I found this book not only insightful, but also affirming everything that Rooting For Growth stands for. The book encourages moving forward bravely, letting go when needed and reimagining what is possible.
Here are the top 4 lessons that stood out to me:
1. Change Will Happen Whether You are Ready or Not
“They keep moving the cheese.”
-Who Moved My Cheese?
This is the core premise of the book. It highlights that change is constant and we don’t always get a memo in advance. Life, opportunities, jobs, relationships, you name it, they evolve.
Accepting that change is inevitable gives you power. It enables you to stop wasting energy fighting the shift and to start adapting. So, whether you are pivoting careers or rethinking your goals, staying flexible is key.
2. Don’t Let Fear Paralyze You
One of the characters from the book, Hem, resists change and stays stuck. The other, Haw, moves forward even when afraid. The contrast reminded me that fear is natural, but how we handle it, like staying still, is the real trap.
Related Post: Here are 5 Practical Tips To Get Unstuck
Take one small step each time, despite the fear. As I’ve learned on my own journey, boldness begins with baby steps.
Related Post: The Bold and the Boxed-In
3. Pay Attention To The Signs
In the story, the mice notice the supply of cheese getting smaller. They act quickly. The little humans however, not so much. We are thus reminded to stay aware. Be present of mind. Act before it is too late.
Life usually gives us lessons and hints of when something is no longer serving us. Avoid ignoring your guts. Is it time to switch gears, end something, start over?
4. Move With The Cheese
“The sooner you let go of old cheese, the sooner you will enjoy new cheese.”
-Who Moved My Cheese?
This line sums up the gist of the book. Holding onto what was, out of nostalgia, fear or even pride, only delays our growth. The ones who win, are those who are willing to move with the ‘cheese’.
Letting go doesn’t always mean failure. Sometimes it symbolizes wisdom to stop clinging and courage to evolve.
Final Thoughts
Who Moved My Cheese is more than just a business fable. It forces us to confront our excuses, fears and comfort zones.
In doing so, the story gently nudges us to move, grow and believe there is more for us – if we are willing to change.
If you are at a crossroads, or simply need a mindset shake-up, give this book a read. It may be the nudge you didn’t know you needed.
Here is a PDF copy of Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson.
