Man, Somebody Moved My Cheese!!
Recently, I had the privilege to re-read one of my all-time favorite books; “Who Moved My Cheese?” by Spencer Johnson M.D. If you have never read this book, I encourage you to get a copy and read it ASAP. (Click on the link in the Recommended Resource Section to purchase a copy now).
This book focuses on the different perspectives individuals have regarding the changes in their lives. These changes can occur in any area of our life (i.e. personal life, career, financial status, etc.)
Also, the book talks about how our “fears” and resistance to change, sometimes paralyzes and prevents us from moving forward to seize the new opportunities (“new cheese”) available to us.
The “cheese” in the book is a metaphor for the things we want in life (i.e. relationships, careers, financial status, security, etc.). The backdrop of the book is a “maze”, which represents the various places where we look for what we want (i.e. work, family, community, etc.).
In light of the major changes many individuals and families have experienced lately due to the poor economy, I encourage you to read this book, even if you have read it before.
As I read the book, I was reminded of the need for me to be aware of and assess what is occurring around me at all times. Also, to face the facts of what I see during this assessment and the courage to implement the changes I need to make regardless to how fearful, uncomfortable or indifferent I may feel about the changes.
Yes, I hear you saying, “Why is that important?”
In the book, “Who Moved My Cheese?” the author uses four characters to portrait the various perspectives individuals have when faced with changes in their life. The characters are two mice (Sniff and Scurry) and two little people (Hem and Haw).
The Sniff character represents those individuals who are seldom surprised by changes, because they are constantly assessing the situation around them. They read about market trends, the latest fads, new technologies, etc. They welcome the change and see the change as a challenge and a new opportunity.
The Scurry character represents those individuals who are busy trying to develop and implement a strategic plan to take advantage of the new opportunities available to them.
Both Sniff and Scurry understand the importance of embracing the change and the potential benefits the new opportunities presences to them.
The Haw character represents those individuals that are somewhat resistance to change. They like things just the way they are. Their life motto is; “If it is not broken, leave it along!!”. However; if they are faced with a “do or die” situation, they will make the necessary changes to survive.
Finally, there is the Hem character; this individual is very resistance to change. He is in opposition to any suggestion of changing. He is very comfortable and satisfied with things just as they are. So much so, that his resistance to change may be to his detriment.
Why am I telling you about this book and these characters?
Because each of us must determine, which of these characters is more reflective of our perspective? In other words, what is my perspective about change? Our perspective regarding change and our response or reaction to the changes that occur in our lives will ultimately determine what we will be able to accomplish in life and the quality of our lives.
I have learned a couple principles in my life that I believe can help us deal with the changes that are going to occur.
First of all, we must guard against complacency. Life is not a “static” journey; we must realize that every thing in our lives that is growing is changing. Therefore; we must remain flexible, if we want to receive the benefits that life has to offer.
Secondly, we must guard against the “common” thinking of our day. We live in a society where people often “judge” others and assess their own “value” based on some defective criteria (i.e. how much money you earn; where you live; what you do for a living; your educational level; etc.).
If we accept this way of thinking, when things change in our lives (i.e. lost of a job, financial setbacks, divorce, etc.), it can have a very negative impact in our life. In other words, many will experience a lowering in their self-esteem and sense of self-worth as a result of the changes.
Therefore; my personal philosophy in life to guard against these tendencies is to remain flexible, don’t hold on too tight to the things of life, because they are only temporal. Also, don’t allow other people and things to define who you are, because life consists of “seasons” and just like in nature; each season has a purpose in helping to mold, shape and help us to grow in certain areas in our life.
Remember in life, changes will occur (our “cheese” will get moved), we must decide if we will embrace the change and seek out new opportunities or try to hold on to the past and that which is familiar and comfortable, ultimately wasting time and potential by gazing at a door that has been closed.
Please provide me your comments on this topic. If you have additional topics you would like to see us discuss, please send me an email or post a comment.
Also, refer this site to other men you know, so we all can journey together!!
For the woman in your life, my wife (Sylvia) has a personal development site focused specifically on the needs and concerns of women. The site is called, www.thedashlady.com.
Also, we have a joint site focused on the needs and concerns of couples (i.e. married, engaged, and seriously dating). This site is focused on helping couples to grow together through personal development. The site is called, www.marriagerhythm.com.
Please visit these sites and leave us a comment about the current posts.
Again, thanks for visiting this site.
Randy
The “DASH” Guy
Mr Clark
That is so where my life is right now.I will also say I will find some cheddar cheese NOW…
Hi Jay,
I am glad you were able to see the importance of pursuing “new cheese” in your life.
Thanks!
Randy