'Who Moved My Cheese?' Super Summary: How to Cope with Change

When we work hard for something or believe that we deserve a certain outcome, it makes disappointment harder to stomach. But all too often, we try to resist change as the next logical step. It's easier to dole out blame and refuse to budge. But why do that when the alternative is so much better?

How you react to change is entirely your choice. If it feels like the end of the world, it’s only because you believe that. A more productive option is to lean into the change by remaining flexible. When you approach things with rigid expectations, you limit your options.

Change is coming, whether we like it or not. Although not all change can be considered good, or even necessary, the one thing it guarantees is more opportunity. Learning to recognize these possibilities is crucial.

Ask yourself, “What would my situation be like if these new circumstances led to something better than what I’m leaving behind?” Imagine that outcome in detail. Let your previous fears and expectations fall away. Changing what you believe transforms what you do.

Spencer Johnson’s book Who Moved My Cheese? offers a simple but insightful parable about dealing with change in your work and personal life. It follows the journeys of four characters (Sniff, Scurry, Hem and Haw) as they navigate a maze in search of their favorite food: cheese.

Cheese is a metaphor for whatever you desire, be it a job promotion or a new romance. The maze represents the backdrop for this desire: your community, workplace, etc. The message is that, like cheese, nothing lasts forever. Remembering to smell the cheese helps you know when it’s getting old.

See change as the beginning of something rather than an end. Those seeking constant security, ironically, are tormented by the threat of losing it. Spencer Johnson teaches us that the sooner you let go of stale cheese, the sooner you’ll find something better.

No matter how certain or secure something seems, you should always leave some leeway for the unexpected. Nothing can go 100% to plan all the time. The sun will rise tomorrow. Everything else is temporary and subject to change.

When you expect challenges, you’re better equipped to deal with them. And once you’re better equipped to deal with them, you may find that taking setbacks in your stride is actually enjoyable. Outside of your comfort zone is where the magic happens.

Bottom line: Life is not to be wasted. It demands a level of risk and adventure. If you’re willing to accept that, change loses its horror. Sometimes things will never be the same. That’s okay. That’s the nature of life! To not change at all is to risk going extinct.