Table of Contents
Who Moved My Cheese by Spencer Johnson
Spencer Johnson’s Who Moved My Cheese? is a widely acclaimed business parable that cleverly illustrates how people respond to change. This brief but impactful story follows four characters—two mice, Sniff and Scurry, and two “little people,” Hem and Haw—who live in a maze and rely on cheese for happiness and sustenance. The cheese serves as a metaphor for what we desire in life: career success, health, wealth, love, or peace of mind. The maze symbolizes the environment or systems in which we navigate life and work.
When the cheese suddenly disappears, each character reacts differently—representing varied human behaviors when facing change. The story uses this simple setup to convey profound lessons about adaptability, fear, complacency, and proactive thinking.
This book is highly relevant to anyone involved in leadership, entrepreneurship, or self-Improvement because it deals with the inevitability of change and the necessity to adapt quickly. In the volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) world of business, the ability to anticipate, respond to, and embrace change is essential for success.
To help you remember the lessons from Who Moved My Cheese by Dr. Spencer Johnson, I’ve created a mnemonic using the acronym “CHANGE IS VITAL”. Each letter corresponds to one of the lessons, forming a memorable phrase that reflects the book’s core theme of embracing change. The lessons are explained in the article below.
- C – Change is Inevitable and Natural
- H – Help Yourself, Then Others with Change
- A – Anticipate and Look Out For Change
- N – New Cheese is Always Out There
- G – Get Ready for Continuous Change
- E – Embrace Change as an Adventure
- I – Internal Change Starts Within
- S – Swiftly Adapt to Change
- V – Visualize to Motivate Action
- I – Identify and Let Go of the Past
- T – Take Lessons from Your Experience and Laugh at Yourself
- A – Always Overcome Fear to Move Forward
- L – Learn to Love the Journey of Change
Lesson 1: Change Is Natural and Inevitable
Change is not an exception in life—it is the rule. In Who Moved My Cheese?, Spencer Johnson introduces this principle with elegant simplicity through a parable of four characters living in a maze, each representing different responses to change. The foundational lesson, and the first that emerges from the story, is that change is inevitable and natural—and the sooner we accept this, the better equipped we are to thrive.
Understanding Change Through the Cheese Metaphor
The cheese in the story is a metaphor for what we value or seek in life: success, relationships, financial security, health, or peace of mind. The maze represents the environments in which we pursue these values—our jobs, families, or communities. At the start of the story, all four characters—Sniff, Scurry, Hem, and Haw—find cheese at Cheese Station C. For a while, things are stable. Then, one day, the cheese is gone.
This disappearance illustrates an uncomfortable truth: nothing lasts forever. Markets evolve, people change, industries get disrupted, and health or personal circumstances shift. The natural response from characters like Hem is denial—insisting that things should not have changed. But denial doesn’t reverse the reality. As Haw later learns, waiting for cheese to return doesn’t bring it back.
Why Leaders and Entrepreneurs Must Embrace This Lesson
In business, assuming that current success will continue indefinitely is a dangerous mindset. Blockbuster assumed DVDs would last. Kodak clung to film. Blackberry underestimated the smartphone revolution. These companies did not recognize that the cheese had moved—or refused to accept it—and were left behind.
Conversely, companies like Netflix and Amazon embraced change as part of their DNA. Netflix moved from DVDs to streaming to original content, constantly evolving with consumer habits. Amazon evolved from books to a global digital infrastructure leader. In both cases, success came from expecting change, preparing for it, and acting before it became urgent.
The Human Resistance to Change
At a personal level, many people resist change because it threatens comfort, identity, or perceived security. Like Hem, we might feel, “It’s not fair!” or “I deserve to keep things the way they are.” But change doesn’t ask for permission. It happens whether we are ready or not.
Haw’s turning point comes when he acknowledges that the cheese is gone and likely never coming back. This acceptance opens the door to growth. His first step isn’t action—it’s mindset. By saying “Change happens,” Haw stops wishing for the past and begins preparing for the future.
Recognizing Change in Real Time
This lesson also includes an important call to vigilance. Sniff and Scurry noticed the cheese supply diminishing. They expected change and weren’t surprised when it came. Most people, and organizations, ignore the subtle signals of change until it’s too late. Leaders must cultivate awareness—of customer feedback, market shifts, team morale, and emerging technologies.
In practical terms, this means:
- Holding regular strategy reviews.
- Tracking leading indicators instead of lagging ones.
- Coaching, Encouraging open communication and dissenting voices.
- Investing in learning and development to stay agile.
From Awareness to Empowerment
Accepting change as natural does not mean we relinquish control. On the contrary, it is the first empowering act. Once we stop wasting energy denying or resisting, we can focus on adapting, creating, and leading. As Haw writes on the wall in the maze:
“Change Happens. They Keep Moving the Cheese.”
This simple sentence is a reminder that change is not personal. It is not a punishment. It is simply how the world works. Embracing that reality gives us the perspective to respond with clarity instead of panic.
Conclusion: Becoming Change-Ready
To live and lead effectively, we must see change not as a disruption, but as a constant opportunity. The characters in Who Moved My Cheese? each reflect different parts of us—some afraid, some hopeful, some instinctive. The lesson of inevitability invites us to lead with our best selves—ready, willing, and alert.
Change is coming. It always is. The question is: Will you be ready to move with it, or will you be asking, “Who moved my cheese?”
Lesson 2: Help Yourself, Then Others with Change
In a world where change is constant—whether it’s in our careers, industries, or personal lives—one timeless principle stands out: you must first help yourself before you can effectively help others. This lesson, powerfully illustrated in Spencer Johnson’s classic Who Moved My Cheese?, is a cornerstone of self-leadership and transformational growth.
In the story, four characters—Sniff, Scurry, Hem, and Haw—navigate a symbolic maze in search of “cheese,” a metaphor for what we value most in life. When the cheese disappears, each character responds differently. While some adapt, others resist. It’s Haw’s journey that reveals one of the book’s most transformative insights: as we grow through change ourselves, we create the conditions to support others too.
Change Must Start Within
At first, Haw is paralyzed by fear and denial, much like his friend Hem. But over time, he realizes that clinging to the past is futile. The world has shifted, and staying in one place will only lead to frustration, disappointment, and stagnation. So he takes a risk. He steps out into the unknown.
Only after Haw begins moving forward—mentally and physically—does he start to regain his confidence and creativity. He writes down lessons on the walls of the maze not only to reinforce them for himself, but in hopes that Hem might eventually find and follow them.
This is a fundamental truth: you can’t help others change if you’re stuck yourself.
Helping yourself means:
- Taking responsibility for your mindset and actions
- Adapting to new realities rather than resisting them
- Investing in your growth, skills, and well-being
- Letting go of fear, perfectionism, and outdated habits
It’s not selfish. It’s essential. You become a more authentic, inspiring, and capable leader when you model the change you hope to see in others.
Your Experience Becomes Their Encouragement
Once you’ve navigated change yourself, you earn something invaluable: perspective. What once seemed scary becomes manageable. What once felt impossible becomes a lived story of resilience.
Like Haw leaving messages on the wall, your journey can serve others:
- Your decisions can provide insight for someone feeling stuck
- Your progress can offer proof that change is survivable—and even liberating
- Your honesty can create trust and relatability, more than any advice ever could
This doesn’t mean forcing others to change. It means becoming a source of hope and guidance, should they choose to evolve too.
Mindset Message:
“I don’t need to be perfect to move forward. And I don’t need others to change for me to keep growing. My experience is a light for those walking behind me.”
Practical Strategies:
- Document your transformation – Keep a journal or voice notes of what you’re learning as you move through change. These reflections become valuable tools later.
- Create before you teach – Don’t wait until you’re an expert. Share progress as you go. Real-time vulnerability builds trust.
- Listen deeply – If others come to you for guidance, listen first. Your job isn’t to fix them. It’s to walk beside them, using your experience to create space for theirs.
Affirmation:
“By helping myself adapt and grow, I become a guide for others navigating change. I lead from experience and lift through understanding.”
Conclusion: Leadership Begins with Personal Change
Who Moved My Cheese? reminds us that change isn’t just something to endure—it’s something we can grow through and later use to serve others. By first helping ourselves through transition, we create space for empathy, wisdom, and authentic leadership. Whether you’re navigating a career shift, launching a business, or simply adjusting to a new phase of life, remember: your courage becomes someone else’s roadmap.
Help yourself first—not just so you survive change, but so you become the kind of person who can help others thrive through it.
Lesson 3: Anticipate and Look Out For Change
In Who Moved My Cheese?, Spencer Johnson doesn’t just show us that change is inevitable—he takes us a step further by urging us to expect it. The second foundational lesson in the story is this: anticipate and monitor change. Those who are prepared for disruption fare far better than those who are caught unaware.
The Parable in Practice: Mice vs. Littlepeople
Sniff and Scurry, the two mice in the story, are constantly aware of their environment. They notice subtle shifts in their cheese supply. Even though they do not possess the complex reasoning of Hem and Haw, their simple, instinctual behaviors give them an edge: they are always observing, sniffing for change. So, when the cheese disappears, they are not surprised—they saw it coming. They had already mentally prepared themselves to act.
Contrast this with Hem and Haw, the “littlepeople,” who are intelligent but complacent. They assumed the cheese would last forever. They stopped paying attention. They didn’t notice that the pile of cheese was shrinking or losing freshness. When the change arrived, they were shocked, angry, and paralyzed.
Why Anticipation Matters in Leadership and Business
In business, failing to anticipate change is often catastrophic. Consider how Nokia dominated the mobile phone market but was slow to recognize the rise of smartphones. Their competitors were paying closer attention to consumer expectations and emerging technologies. The same applies to leaders who ignore cultural shifts within their organizations or entrepreneurs who fail to see changing customer preferences.
Anticipation doesn’t require prediction—it requires observation and responsiveness. It’s about scanning your environment, reading the signs, and not getting too comfortable with the status quo.
Here’s how forward-thinking leaders and entrepreneurs apply this principle:
- Stay Close to Customers: They engage regularly with end users to detect evolving needs, frustrations, and preferences.
- Track Small Changes: They don’t ignore minor drops in performance or shifts in behavior. These are often the early warnings.
- Scenario Plan: They build strategies that account for multiple futures, rather than assuming a single outcome.
- Invest in Data: They monitor key indicators that show trends before they’re obvious to everyone.
The Danger of Assumptions
Hem and Haw assumed the cheese would always be there. They let comfort turn into entitlement. This is a common trap in both life and business—believing that what has worked will always work. Anticipating change means questioning assumptions, no matter how stable things seem. What if your best-selling product becomes obsolete? What if your most reliable client switches providers? What if your team culture starts eroding?
Haw writes a powerful realization on the maze wall:
“Smell the cheese often so you know when it is getting old.”
This sentence encapsulates the lesson. Change doesn’t usually come without warning. The signs are there—but only if you’re looking for them.
Building a Habit of Monitoring Change
In the real world, this means creating a habit and culture of vigilance. Here are some actionable ways to monitor change effectively:
- Daily Stand-Ups: Quick team check-ins that reveal small shifts in work dynamics or priorities.
- Customer Feedback Loops: Use surveys, reviews, and interviews to stay informed about your customers’ evolving needs.
- Performance Dashboards: Track KPIs not just for evaluation, but for identifying early trends or declines.
- Industry Monitoring: Regularly consume news, white papers, and competitor updates.
- Internal Feedback Mechanisms: Encourage employees at all levels to report what they’re noticing—what’s no longer working, where there’s resistance, or where new energy is emerging.
Mindset: Expect the Unexpected
To anticipate change is to live in readiness. It is a mindset that values curiosity over certainty. Sniff and Scurry didn’t panic when the cheese was gone because they were mentally prepared to explore. They had their shoes on. They had not grown dependent on comfort.
This lesson challenges leaders to stay mentally agile. Are you prepared to move if the market shifts tomorrow? Are your systems resilient enough to evolve? Are your people emotionally and intellectually ready to adjust?
Conclusion: The Power of Early Action
Anticipating and monitoring change gives you time—time to pivot, time to adapt, and time to lead. It transforms you from a victim of change into an architect of your next opportunity. Whether you’re running a business, managing a team, or leading your own life, this readiness is a critical skill.
In the maze of modern life, the cheese will always move. Those who sniff it coming are already halfway to finding the new one.
Lesson 4: New Cheese is Always Out There
One of the most empowering insights from Spencer Johnson’s Who Moved My Cheese? is the simple yet transformative idea that “There is always new cheese.” This lesson is about maintaining hope, staying open to possibilities, and recognizing that change doesn’t mean the end—it often marks the beginning of something new and potentially better.
Scarcity vs. Abundance Thinking
In the story, Hem represents scarcity thinking: when the cheese disappears, he believes it’s gone forever. He feels entitled to what was and fears that nothing good will come again. This mindset leads him to wait, complain, and ultimately remain stuck.
Haw, on the other hand, learns to adopt an abundance mindset. Even before he finds new cheese, he begins to believe that more cheese exists—he just needs to go find it. He writes:
“The more important your cheese is to you, the more you want to hold on to it. But it’s safer to search in the maze, because the cheese is always being moved.”
That shift from scarcity to abundance gives him energy, hope, and eventually success.
Why This Matters for Leaders and Entrepreneurs
In business, losses are inevitable: a key client leaves, a product fails, a strategy becomes outdated. The leaders who thrive aren’t the ones who panic or dwell—they’re the ones who believe there is new opportunity and go searching for it.
This lesson reminds entrepreneurs and decision-makers:
- Market disruption creates openings for innovation.
- Losing one customer may reveal a better-aligned niche.
- When an old revenue stream dries up, a smarter one might lie just ahead.
Optimism isn’t wishful thinking—it’s the belief that value still exists beyond the current situation. That belief fuels persistence, creativity, and long-term growth.
From Grief to Growth
Johnson’s metaphor of “cheese” represents anything we value: success, love, money, stability. When we lose our “cheese,” it’s natural to grieve. But staying in grief too long blinds us to the truth: the maze didn’t end—the path just changed.
Haw overcomes this by repeating his new truth to himself:
“There is always new cheese out there.”
This isn’t naive—it’s empowering. It helps him take the next step, even when he doesn’t know where it will lead.
How to Internalize This Lesson
- Accept Loss, Then Move Forward
It’s okay to grieve what’s gone—but don’t get stuck there. Use acceptance as the springboard for action. - Adopt a Seeker’s Mindset
View life and work as a maze full of twists and discoveries. Be curious. Explore. Keep moving. - Believe in Possibility
Remind yourself: even if the familiar is gone, something new is always available—a new idea, connection, opportunity. - Stay Alert to the Present
Don’t let fixation on the past blind you to new cheese in front of you. Look around. What’s changed? What’s opening? - Celebrate Small Finds
Every bit of “new cheese”—a lead, an insight, a fresh direction—is proof that more exists. Recognize and appreciate it.
Real-World Example: Netflix vs. Blockbuster
When video rentals began shifting toward digital, Blockbuster clung to its old model—physical stores, late fees, brick-and-mortar dominance. Netflix, meanwhile, believed there was “new cheese”—new ways to serve customers through DVD-by-mail, then streaming, and now original content.
Blockbuster stayed at the empty cheese station. Netflix moved through the maze—and thrived.
Conclusion: Change Is a Doorway, Not a Dead End
The idea that “there is always new cheese” is not just about optimism; it’s about direction. It gives you the confidence to let go of what’s gone, stay proactive, and believe that the effort of change will lead somewhere meaningful.
Haw didn’t know exactly where the maze would take him—but he trusted there was something worthwhile ahead. And that belief made all the difference
Lesson 5: Get Ready for Continuous Change
In other words, don’t just adapt once—build a life and mindset that’s prepared for ongoing change. Spencer Johnson doesn’t end the story with a return to comfort, but with a sense of preparedness for what might move next.
Change Is Not a One-Time Event
In the story, the maze is constantly shifting, and the cheese doesn’t stay in one place. Even after Haw finds the new cheese, he doesn’t settle into complacency. Instead, he checks the cheese station regularly, stays mentally prepared, and remains aware that the cheese could move again.
He writes:
“The quicker you let go of old cheese, the sooner you find new cheese.”
And crucially:
“They keep moving the cheese.”
This insight encourages readers not just to react to change but to anticipate and even embrace it as a permanent condition of life and business.
Why This Is Critical for Leaders and Entrepreneurs
In modern business, change is not a phase—it’s a constant. Technologies evolve, markets shift, customer expectations grow, and economic realities fluctuate. The most successful leaders don’t treat change as an interruption—they treat it as the environment.
This means:
- Systems must be agile, not fixed.
- Strategies must be iterative, not rigid.
- People must be empowered, not controlled.
Leaders who bake adaptability into their teams and processes are the ones who stay relevant and resilient.
Shifting from Stability to Agility
Many people and organizations make the mistake of thinking:
“Once we get through this change, we’ll go back to normal.”
But there is no “back to normal.” There is only the next normal. Haw embodies this mindset shift. Once he realizes that cheese will always move, he builds his confidence not around a destination—but around his ability to navigate the maze.
He no longer clings to outcomes. He trusts himself to respond.
Practical Ways to Prepare for Continuous Change
- Build a Change-Ready Culture
Encourage experimentation, celebrate learning, and reward initiative. Make adaptability a team norm, not a crisis response. - Stay Curious and Observant
Like Sniff and Scurry, scan for early signals. What’s shifting in your industry, market, or team? Get ahead of the curve. - Invest in Learning
Change favors the skilled. Create habits of continuous learning—read, train, reflect, and stay mentally flexible. - Challenge Comfort Zones Regularly
Don’t wait for external pressure. Practice change by seeking small challenges, rotating roles, or updating methods. - Reframe Change as Opportunity
Replace fear of the unknown with curiosity. Ask: What could this change unlock? Who could I become through it?
Real-World Example: Amazon’s Relentless Reinvention
Amazon exemplifies this principle. Though it started as a bookseller, it has reinvented itself repeatedly—into an e-commerce leader, cloud computing giant (AWS), logistics powerhouse, and AI innovator.
At Amazon, continuous change isn’t a disruption—it’s a strategy. Leaders there ask: What will customers want tomorrow that we’re not doing today? That’s the Haw mindset, applied at scale.
Conclusion: Stay Light, Stay Moving
At the end of Who Moved My Cheese?, Haw doesn’t just settle in with the new cheese—he stays vigilant, mobile, and mentally prepared. He knows the cheese will move again, and this time, he’ll be ready.
That’s the final and lasting lesson:
Don’t just survive change—build yourself to thrive in it.
When you accept that change never stops, you free yourself from fear and become truly adaptable.
You become the kind of leader, entrepreneur, or person who isn’t just reacting to life—but shaping it.
Lesson 6: Embrace Change as an Adventure
In a world where change is constant, our experience of it often hinges on mindset. In Who Moved My Cheese?, Spencer Johnson shows that the shift from fear to freedom happens not just by overcoming resistance, but by embracing change as an adventure. What begins as anxiety can turn into excitement—if we choose to see it that way.
From Dread to Discovery: Haw’s Turning Point
Haw’s journey in the maze is a clear illustration of how attitude transforms experience. At first, change is terrifying. He’s weak, hungry, and fearful. But as he ventures into unknown corridors, something remarkable happens: he begins to enjoy the process.
He laughs at his old fears. He becomes curious. He imagines what kinds of new cheese might lie ahead. He even starts leaving messages on the wall—less as desperate reminders for Hem, and more as breadcrumbs of joy and learning.
One of his most inspiring insights is:
“When you see that you can find and enjoy new cheese, you change course.”
The lesson here is not just that change is survivable—it can be exciting, energizing, and even fun.
Why This Mindset Matters in Leadership and Life
People often frame change as loss: “We’re losing the old way, the familiar system, the known path.” But what if we flipped that mindset and saw it as discovery? Something new to build, explore, or become?
In business, this is the difference between:
- A company reacting defensively to market disruption…
- Versus one innovating proactively to shape the future.
In life, it’s the difference between:
- Feeling like a victim of changing circumstances…
- Versus becoming the author of your next chapter.
Change is inevitable. Suffering during it is optional.
How to Cultivate an “Adventure” Mindset
- Reframe Uncertainty as Exploration
Unknown doesn’t mean unsafe—it means untapped. Replace “What if I fail?” with “What might I discover?” - Celebrate Small Wins
Every step into new territory is a victory. Find joy in the process, not just the outcome. - Stay Curious
Ask questions. Experiment. Take risks with the spirit of learning rather than the pressure of perfection. - Use Visualization
As Haw does, imagine yourself succeeding. Picture yourself thriving in the new situation. Let your mind arrive before your body does. - Have a Sense of Humor
Laughter reduces fear. Haw starts to enjoy himself when he stops taking his anxiety so seriously.
Case Study: Startups and Innovation
Startups live this lesson every day. Founders leave stable jobs to pursue uncertain ideas, often with no clear roadmap. The best among them embrace the chaos as a creative playground, not a threat. They iterate, pivot, and learn rapidly. They treat obstacles as part of the game.
Consider Airbnb. It began as a desperate attempt to pay rent by renting out air mattresses during a conference. Today, it’s a multi-billion-dollar company—not because the founders avoided change, but because they leaned into the adventure of what change made possible.
From Surviving to Thriving
When Haw stops waiting and starts exploring, his physical and emotional energy increases. He gets stronger. He thinks more clearly. He even becomes more hopeful about the future. Why? Because he is no longer passively enduring change—he is actively participating in it.
In one of his final insights, he writes:
“Savor the adventure and move with the cheese.”
That phrase distills the entire message: don’t just accept change—enjoy it.
Conclusion: Change Can Be a Catalyst for Joy
If fear is the first reaction to change, excitement can be the second—if you let it. When you reframe change as an adventure, it opens up energy, creativity, and resilience.
Whether you’re leading a team through transformation, starting over after a life shift, or simply facing a new phase, remember Haw’s lesson: don’t run from the maze—run into it. Not because you have to, but because you get to.
Lesson 7: Change Starts Within
True and lasting change doesn’t begin in your environment—it begins in your mindset. In Who Moved My Cheese?, Spencer Johnson shows that change starts within, not with circumstances, not with external forces, but with a shift in thinking.
Haw’s transformation throughout the story is not because the maze becomes easier or the cheese magically reappears. His progress begins only after he changes his perspective, accepts the truth, and decides to move forward. Everything external stays the same at first—but internally, everything shifts.
From Inertia to Initiative
At the beginning of the story, Haw—like his companion Hem—is stuck. The cheese is gone, but he keeps returning to the same place, hoping things will fix themselves. His external conditions don’t change, and neither does his behavior, because his thoughts haven’t changed yet. He still believes he deserves the old cheese, that it was unfairly taken, and that he should wait for it to come back.
But over time, Haw begins to question his beliefs. He stops asking, “Who moved my cheese?” and starts asking, “Why didn’t I move with it?”
This internal change unlocks everything that follows. His attitude changes, his fear diminishes, and he begins to take action. As he writes on the wall:
“When you change what you believe, you change what you do.”
Why This Is Critical for Leaders and Entrepreneurs
In leadership and business, people often focus on external changes—new tools, new strategies, new hires. But unless there’s an inner shift in mindset, behavior, and belief, the outer changes won’t stick.
For example:
- A company can roll out a new performance system, but unless managers believe in accountability, it won’t improve results.
- A person can change careers, but if they still carry limiting beliefs about their abilities, they won’t grow into the new role.
- A team can reorganize, but without a change in communication habits or trust, the structure won’t function.
Leaders must model and nurture internal change: reflection, belief evolution, and emotional intelligence.
How to Initiate Inner Change
- Challenge Your Assumptions
What beliefs are you holding that might no longer serve you? “This is how we’ve always done it” is often a red flag. - Reflect on Your Reactions
When facing resistance or discomfort, ask: What belief is driving this reaction? Is it fear, pride, or outdated thinking? - Choose Growth-Oriented Beliefs
Move from “I can’t” to “I can learn.” From “I’m stuck” to “I can explore.” This internal shift creates external movement. - Act as If You Believe
Behavior often leads belief. Even if you’re unsure, take steps in the direction of change. Confidence grows with momentum. - Visualize the Future You Want
As Haw does, picture yourself succeeding in the new reality. This isn’t wishful thinking—it’s preparation.
The Role of Responsibility
Haw doesn’t wait for the maze to change. He realizes that waiting is just another form of avoidance. The moment he accepts responsibility—“It’s up to me to move”—he begins to change his fate.
This is the heart of internal transformation: owning your response, even when you didn’t create the problem. That mindset is powerful in any domain—whether leading a business, managing a team, or navigating personal change.
Real-World Example
Consider Satya Nadella’s transformation of Microsoft. When he became CEO, the company wasn’t struggling outwardly, but inwardly, it was siloed, resistant to change, and operating with a fixed mindset. Nadella didn’t start with product overhauls—he started with culture.
He championed empathy, learning, and growth mindset—internal shifts—which then unlocked innovation across teams. The result was one of the most remarkable business transformations in recent years.
Conclusion: Be the First to Change
As Haw shows, the maze won’t change for you. The cheese won’t come back. But once you change your thinking, your world begins to open. External success flows from internal readiness.
If you want to lead others through change, start by leading yourself through it.
Lesson 8: Swiftly Adapt to Change
In Who Moved My Cheese?, once it becomes clear that change has occurred, the next critical lesson is this: adapt quickly to change. Resistance wastes time, drains energy, and delays progress. In contrast, those who respond with agility position themselves to survive—and thrive—in the new environment.
Speed vs. Stagnation in the Maze
When the cheese disappears, the mice Sniff and Scurry don’t hesitate. They had anticipated the change and are mentally—and physically—ready to respond. They immediately re-enter the maze in search of new cheese. They don’t complain. They don’t theorize. They act.
Haw, after initial resistance and fear, follows their lead. Once he begins adapting—changing his thoughts, behaviors, and actions—his situation improves. He discovers new paths, learns new lessons, and grows stronger and wiser.
Hem, however, refuses to adapt. He waits in vain for things to return to the way they were. As a result, he remains stuck in a cheeseless situation, paralyzed by denial and fear.
The Cost of Delay
In business, delayed adaptation is one of the leading causes of decline. Consider what happened to traditional retailers when e-commerce disrupted the industry. While companies like Amazon capitalized on the new terrain, others, like Sears and Toys “R” Us, failed to change fast enough—and paid the price.
Adaptation is not just a matter of recognizing change—it’s acting on it before it’s too late.
Why Speed Matters
Adapting quickly doesn’t mean being reckless. It means shifting your mindset, recalibrating your goals, and taking steps into the new reality while others are still clinging to the old one. Early movers can seize market share, set trends, and learn faster than competitors who hesitate.
In Who Moved My Cheese?, Haw writes on the wall:
“The quicker you let go of old cheese, the sooner you find new cheese.”
This isn’t just a motivational phrase—it’s strategic wisdom. The longer you cling to old habits, roles, or strategies that no longer work, the further behind you fall.
How to Adapt Quickly in Practice
- Recognize the Shift
Don’t deny the change. Be honest about what’s no longer working. Whether it’s a product, process, or partnership—see the truth clearly and early. - Drop the Old Baggage
Old assumptions, behaviors, or loyalties might be holding you back. Let them go. You can’t move forward if you’re dragging yesterday behind you. - Act Decisively
Take the first step, however small. Test a new strategy, learn a new skill, or change direction. Action builds momentum and clarity. - Learn as You Go
Rapid adaptation doesn’t mean perfect planning. Be willing to try, fail, and adjust. Flexibility matters more than flawless execution. - Reinforce a Culture of Agility
Leaders must model quick adaptation. If you embrace and reward initiative and experimentation, your team will follow.
Mindset: Change as a Skill, Not a Threat
In the book, Haw initially hesitates out of fear. But once he changes his perspective, he discovers the joy of exploration and the confidence that comes from moving. Change stops being threatening and starts being empowering.
This shift is crucial for leaders and entrepreneurs. Adaptability isn’t just a trait—it’s a learnable skill. And it’s most effective when you train yourself and your team to expect change, accept it, and move with it rather than fight it.
An Everyday Example
During the COVID-19 pandemic, restaurants that adapted quickly by pivoting to online ordering, delivery, and curbside service survived—and in some cases, grew. Those that resisted digital transformation or waited too long were left behind.
This is the lesson in action: when the old cheese is gone, don’t sit still. Start moving.
Conclusion: Move with the Cheese
To adapt quickly is to respect reality. It’s recognizing that life, business, and success all operate in motion. By moving when change occurs—and not after it’s too late—you gain the chance to discover new opportunities, avoid unnecessary pain, and lead with clarity.
As Haw discovers in the maze, the new cheese is out there. But you won’t find it by standing still.
Lesson 9: Visualize to Motivate Action
One of the most subtle yet powerful tools in Who Moved My Cheese? is visualization. Spencer Johnson presents it not as a technique reserved for athletes or top performers, but as a practical, daily mindset tool that helps people embrace change and take decisive action. Visualization—seeing success before it happens—can shift emotions, build confidence, and spur action when fear or uncertainty would otherwise keep you frozen.
Haw’s Mental Breakthrough
As Haw navigates the maze in search of new cheese, he doesn’t just rely on physical movement. He begins to mentally picture himself discovering and enjoying the new cheese. This act of visualization becomes a turning point.
He imagines:
- The smell and taste of the new cheese.
- How it will feel to succeed.
- What life will look like when he finds it.
And in doing so, he experiences a key psychological shift. He writes:
“Imagining myself enjoying new cheese even before I find it, leads me to it.”
This insight reflects what modern psychology has long confirmed: the brain doesn’t clearly distinguish between real and vividly imagined experiences. When we visualize success, we prime our brain and body to pursue it.
Why Visualization Works
- It Replaces Fear with Focus
When we picture negative outcomes, we feel anxious and avoidant. When we picture positive ones, we feel motivated and ready. Haw shifts from fearing the unknown to anticipating reward. - It Builds Confidence
Seeing yourself succeed—even in your mind—builds the belief that you can succeed. That belief becomes the fuel for action. - It Clarifies Goals
Visualization makes abstract goals concrete. It forces you to define what “success” looks like, which helps you recognize it when you see it. - It Activates the Brain
Studies show that mental rehearsal activates the same neural pathways as physical practice. You’re training your brain for the task ahead.
Application in Leadership and Entrepreneurship
Leaders and entrepreneurs often operate amid uncertainty. Decisions must be made without guaranteed outcomes. Visualization offers a grounded way to mentally test-drive success before you commit to a path.
Examples:
- A founder visualizes pitching to investors—imagining confidence, clarity, and positive engagement.
- A leader facing organizational change pictures the team adapting, growing, and succeeding in the new structure.
- A salesperson envisions closing a major deal, anticipating objections, and confidently delivering value.
In all these cases, visualization doesn’t guarantee outcomes—but it prepares the individual to act, speak, and lead as if success is possible.
How to Use Visualization Practically
- Be Specific
Don’t just say “I want to succeed.” Picture the scene in detail: the setting, sounds, feelings, and outcomes. - Engage Emotionally
Let yourself feel what success would feel like. Emotions deepen memory and motivation. - Make It a Habit
Spend 2–5 minutes each morning visualizing success in one key area of your life or work. Repetition builds clarity and belief. - Link It to Action
Visualization isn’t a substitute for action—it’s a trigger for it. Use it to prepare mentally, then follow through physically. - Write It Down
Like Haw’s wall writings, notes and affirmations can reinforce your mental imagery and keep you focused.
Real-World Example
Olympic athletes are trained to mentally rehearse every movement, breath, and turn of their performance. Michael Phelps, for example, was known for visualizing each stroke of his races before they began. When a goggle malfunction occurred during one Olympic final, he still won—because he had rehearsed the race in his mind so vividly, he didn’t need to see.
In business, top performers in sales, leadership, and product development often use visualization before critical meetings, product launches, or negotiations. It allows them to walk into uncertainty with clarity and composure.
Conclusion: Picture It, Pursue It
Haw didn’t wait until he found new cheese to feel successful. He imagined it first—and that vision pulled him forward. As Spencer Johnson illustrates, change is easier when we mentally step into the new reality before it arrives.
Whether you’re leading change, starting over, or chasing a new goal, don’t just hope it happens—see it happening. Your vision will become your compass.
Lesson 10: Identify and Let Go of the Past
Holding on to what no longer exists—out of habit, comfort, or fear—keeps us stuck. Whether it’s a failing strategy, a broken relationship, or an outdated belief, clinging to what used to work can prevent us from moving forward into what will work.
Why We Cling to the Past
In the story, when the cheese at Station C disappears, Hem and Haw struggle to accept it. Their response is marked by denial, anger, and false hope. “It’s not fair!” Hem exclaims. They believed the cheese was theirs, and they acted entitled to it. They waited for it to return rather than act on the reality that it was gone.
This clinging to the past isn’t unique to Hem and Haw—it mirrors our human tendency to resist letting go. We do it in our personal lives (refusing to leave an unfulfilling job or relationship), and in business (sticking with a dying product or strategy because of sunk costs or pride).
Haw’s breakthrough comes when he realizes:
“The quicker you let go of old cheese, the sooner you find new cheese.”
That moment of clarity shifts everything. Letting go allows movement—and movement is the beginning of growth.
The Emotional Weight of the Past
Letting go is hard not just because of what we’re losing, but because of what it represents. Past successes can become part of our identity. We associate routines and roles with security and self-worth. Letting go feels like giving up—but it’s actually waking up.
In the maze, Haw initially fears venturing out. But once he stops longing for the cheese that’s gone and accepts that it won’t return, he gains energy, clarity, and freedom. What seemed terrifying becomes doable—because he stops dragging the emotional weight of the past with him.
How Letting Go Frees Us in Real Life
Leaders and entrepreneurs often struggle to let go of:
- Legacy products that no longer serve the market.
- Long-term employees who no longer align with the company’s direction.
- Processes that once worked but now hinder speed or innovation.
- Personal habits or leadership styles that are no longer effective.
Letting go doesn’t mean forgetting the past—it means releasing its grip. A company, like a person, must evolve or risk irrelevance.
Strategies for Letting Go
- Name What You’re Holding Onto
Get specific. Is it a routine? A belief? A relationship? A goal that no longer fits? Naming it gives you power over it. - Acknowledge What It Gave You
Honor the value of the past. It served you once—but it doesn’t anymore. Let gratitude replace guilt. - Accept What’s Changed
Denial keeps you anchored. Acceptance cuts the rope. Say aloud: “It’s over. It’s gone. And that’s okay.” - Create a New Focus
Shift your energy from mourning what was to exploring what could be. What new cheese might be waiting for you? - Move in Small Steps
As Haw does in the story, take action—even if uncertain. You don’t have to have it all figured out. You just have to move.
The Cost of Holding On Too Long
The longer you stay at Cheese Station C, the more your energy drains, your outlook darkens, and your opportunities shrink. Hem, who never lets go, remains stuck, hungry, and fearful. Haw, who dares to move, regains strength and joy—even before he finds new cheese.
The cost of holding on is stagnation. The reward of letting go is renewal.
A Common Business Example
A retail company clings to its traditional in-store model even as foot traffic declines and online shopping rises. Executives resist e-commerce because it’s unfamiliar and “not how we’ve always done it.” Eventually, revenue collapses—not because the market wasn’t there, but because the company couldn’t let go of the past fast enough.
In contrast, brands like Walmart embraced omnichannel strategies early. They kept what worked—but let go of what didn’t.
Conclusion: Leave the Old Cheese Behind
Letting go is not a one-time act. It’s a mindset. It’s the willingness to release what’s behind you so you can embrace what’s ahead. As Haw learns, the longer you hold on to the old, the more you deprive yourself of the new.
Letting go doesn’t mean losing—it means making room for better.
Lesson 11: Take Lessons from Your Experience and Laugh at Yourself
Humility is a powerful catalyst for change. In Who Moved My Cheese?, Spencer Johnson emphasizes that the ability to learn from experience—and laugh at yourself along the way—is what separates those who remain stuck from those who grow and move forward.
Haw, the central “Littleperson” in the story, undergoes a dramatic transformation. Initially paralyzed by fear and clinging to the past, he eventually becomes a model of personal growth. What triggers this change? Not just the realization that he must move—but the moment he stops taking himself so seriously.
The Power of Self-Awareness
One of Haw’s most important breakthroughs comes when he laughs at himself. He reflects on how ridiculous he and Hem looked, returning every day to the same spot hoping the cheese would magically reappear.
He says:
“Haw, haw, look at us. We keep doing the same things over and over again and wonder why things don’t get better.”
This moment of humor is more than comic relief. It marks the turning point where self-pity transforms into self-awareness. Laughing at himself breaks the cycle of denial and shame. It opens the door to change—not from a place of fear, but from a place of humility and growth.
Why This Matters in Business and Leadership
Organizations—like individuals—must be willing to reflect on their mistakes without being crippled by them. The most innovative companies are those that:
- Admit when a product isn’t working.
- Learn from failed campaigns.
- Reflect openly on flawed decisions.
- Encourage teams to experiment, fail fast, and laugh off the stumbles.
Leaders who model self-reflection and humility—who can admit, “That was a bad call” or “I missed the signal”—foster cultures where learning is valued over ego. This creates psychological safety, trust, and continuous improvement.
Learning vs. Blaming
Haw’s transformation contrasts sharply with Hem, who continues blaming external forces. Hem believes the cheese was taken unfairly and that someone else should fix the problem. He refuses to accept any responsibility or adapt his behavior.
This illustrates a crucial divide:
- People (and teams) who blame stagnate.
- Those who learn evolve.
Learning requires humility. It demands a willingness to be wrong, to reflect, and to ask: What can I do differently next time?
How to Practice This Lesson
- Reflect Regularly
After every major decision or project, conduct a short personal or team debrief. Ask: What worked? What didn’t? What did we learn? - Embrace Mistakes as Data
Reframe failure as feedback. The question is not Did we fail? but What did we gain from it? - Laugh Lightly
Take your work seriously—but not yourself. Humor disarms fear and dissolves defensiveness. - Tell Your Growth Story
Share past mistakes and what you learned. It builds credibility and encourages others to do the same. - Encourage Reflective Culture
In teams, normalize retrospectives. Highlight lessons, not blame. Make “What did we learn?” a standard agenda item.
Personal and Organizational Growth
Growth doesn’t happen just from change—it happens from processing change. Haw not only moves through the maze; he actively thinks about his journey. He writes notes to himself. He visualizes new outcomes. He critiques his past behavior. And he does it all with lightness and humor.
This is critical: without reflection, change can be chaotic. With reflection, change becomes transformative.
Conclusion: Laugh, Learn, and Lead
In life, work, and leadership, we will all make mistakes. The question isn’t whether we stumble—it’s whether we learn from the stumble and laugh at the misstep.
As Haw shows, once you let go of your ego, you gain freedom. Freedom to change. Freedom to grow. And freedom to enjoy the journey—even when it’s awkward, imperfect, or downright funny.
Lesson 11: Always Overcome Fear to Move Forward
Fear is one of the most powerful forces that hold us back from growth, innovation, and happiness. In Who Moved My Cheese?, Spencer Johnson reveals that while change is inevitable, progress only begins when we confront and overcome our fear. Until then, we remain stuck, paralyzed by what might go wrong instead of empowered by what could go right.
Fear as a Barrier
In the story, after the cheese disappears, Haw is overwhelmed by fear. He hesitates to leave Cheese Station C, not because he enjoys being cheeseless—but because he’s afraid of the unknown. What if there’s no new cheese? What if he gets lost in the maze? What if the new path is worse?
These are familiar questions in real life. Fear of failure, rejection, criticism, or uncertainty prevents people from quitting bad jobs, launching new ventures, having hard conversations, or trying something unfamiliar. Hem embodies this paralysis completely. He refuses to leave, still clinging to the false hope that the old cheese will come back.
Haw’s turning point comes when he challenges his fear with a simple, powerful question:
“What would you do if you weren’t afraid?”
This becomes the key that unlocks movement. Instead of ignoring his fear or waiting for it to disappear, he names it, questions it, and acts in spite of it.
Why Fear Feels So Real (Even When It’s Not)
Fear is often based not on facts, but on stories we tell ourselves:
- “If I try and fail, I’ll look stupid.”
- “If I change jobs, I might not succeed.”
- “If I let go, I’ll lose everything.”
These thoughts create a mental prison. The irony is that the danger we imagine is often worse than the reality. Haw writes on the maze wall:
“Fear you let build up in your mind is worse than the situation that actually exists.”
He learns that most fear is a lie of the imagination. Once he steps into the maze, he discovers that it’s not nearly as frightening as he expected. It’s hard work, yes—but it’s also invigorating and hopeful.
Overcoming Fear in Leadership and Life
Leaders, entrepreneurs, and individuals face fear in many forms:
- Laying off employees to save a company.
- Launching a product that might flop.
- Saying “no” to a client or deal that feels wrong.
- Ending a toxic relationship.
- Starting over after failure.
The key isn’t eliminating fear. The key is acting despite it.
Here’s how to do that:
- Name the Fear
Write it down. Say it aloud. “I’m afraid that if I change careers, I’ll fail.” Clarity breaks fear’s power. - Ask What’s Real
Is there actual evidence for your fear, or is it assumption and worst-case thinking? Often, it’s the latter. - Visualize Success
As Haw does, picture yourself succeeding. Let that image become stronger than your fear. - Take One Small Step
You don’t need to leap. Just move. One action quiets a hundred anxious thoughts. - Build the Muscle
Courage grows with repetition. The more often you act through fear, the less power it has.
Fear and Organizational Change
Teams and companies also resist change out of fear. Employees worry about job security. Managers fear loss of control. Culture resists disruption. As a leader, you must first acknowledge that fear is normal—then model the behavior of moving forward anyway.
Haw’s journey is the perfect metaphor: once someone dares to move, others are inspired to follow.
Real-World Example
During the rise of digital streaming, many music executives feared dismantling their profitable CD business models. Meanwhile, Apple launched iTunes and Spotify pioneered streaming subscriptions. They faced the same uncertainty—but acted anyway. Today, they dominate an industry once crippled by fear and inaction.
Conclusion: Use Fear as a Compass
In Who Moved My Cheese?, Haw doesn’t wait until he’s fearless to act—he becomes less fearful by acting. His journey shows that fear isn’t a stop sign; it’s a signal. Often, the thing you fear most is the thing you most need to do.
As Haw eventually writes:
“When you move beyond your fear, you feel free.”
That freedom is waiting—not in the comfort of the past, but in the courage to step into the maze.
Lesson 13: Learn to Love the Journey of Change
Change is inevitable—but what if it could also be beautiful?
In Who Moved My Cheese?, Spencer Johnson teaches us how to anticipate, accept, and adapt to change. Characters like Haw grow as they move through the maze of life, leaving behind fear and embracing the new. But there’s another layer worth exploring—not just surviving change or managing it, but learning to love the journey it offers.
This is the deeper evolution of self-leadership: when we stop merely coping with change and begin to cherish it. When we don’t just look for “new cheese,” but savor the lessons, growth, and clarity the search brings.
Beyond Coping: From Resistance to Reverence
Many people see change as a disruption or threat. Even when they adapt, they often do it grudgingly—hoping to “get through it” so life can go back to normal.
But those who thrive see something else. They view change not as the enemy, but as a teacher and a gift.
This doesn’t mean every change feels easy or welcome. It means they choose to see every shift—every detour, delay, and decision—as part of their evolution. The journey through change becomes as important as the destination.
It’s this shift—from avoidance to appreciation—that defines the 13th lesson: Learn to Love the Journey of Change.
What It Means to Love the Journey
To love the journey of change is to:
- Honor your growth. Even painful change produces insight and resilience you couldn’t gain otherwise.
- Stay curious. Ask, “What is this teaching me?” rather than “Why is this happening to me?”
- Find meaning in the moment. Every emotion—confusion, courage, even fear—is part of your unfolding story.
- Celebrate the process, not just the outcomes. Each step, even the missteps, reveals something valuable.
This mindset blends two themes from Who Moved My Cheese?: the joy of adventure and the wisdom of reflection. But by combining learning and emotional appreciation, this lesson invites a deeper transformation—one that isn’t rushed, resisted, or merely endured.
Mindset Message:
“Every twist in the maze is a chapter in my becoming. I am not just changing—I am unfolding.”
Practical Ways to Love the Journey
- Name the Wins Along the Way
Don’t wait until the end to celebrate. Each small action—making a decision, learning a skill, asking for help—is progress worth honoring. - Reflect on What You’re Learning
Keep a change journal. Ask: “What did I learn about myself today?” or “How did I grow from that challenge?” This builds both awareness and appreciation. - Be Kind to Yourself in Uncertainty
Loving the journey means accepting the messiness of it. Progress isn’t linear. Give yourself grace in the in-between. - Create Emotional Anchors
Find music, quotes, or rituals that connect you emotionally to your progress. These turn abstract growth into something you can feel and remember.
Affirmation:
“I welcome change not only for where it takes me, but for who I become along the way.”
Conclusion: The Change Is the Gift
Learning to love the journey of change doesn’t mean denying the discomfort. It means embracing the full human experience of transformation—fear, courage, curiosity, and clarity—as something meaningful in itself.
Just like Haw in Who Moved My Cheese? left writings on the wall to reflect and guide, we can treat every life shift as a chance to grow wiser, stronger, and more alive.
Because the greatest change isn’t what happens around us—it’s what happens within us.
And when we learn to love that process, we don’t just move with change—we elevate through it.
🌟 Affirmations
Each affirmation above is crafted in a gentle, nurturing tone, calling in divine blessings and wealth with confidence, love, and gratitude.
| Lesson | Louise Hay–Style Affirmations |
|---|---|
| C – Change is Inevitable and Natural | 1. I flow easily with the rhythms of life, trusting that every change brings greater abundance. 2. I welcome change with an open heart, knowing it always leads me to something better. 3. Every shift in my life brings a divine opportunity for growth, joy, and prosperity. |
| H – Help Yourself, Then Others with Change | 1. As I nourish and support myself, I naturally uplift others with love and grace. 2. I fill my own cup with peace and abundance, and share my overflow with the world. 3. Helping myself with kindness allows me to help others from a place of strength and joy. |
| A – Anticipate and Look Out for Change | 1. I remain alert and excited, knowing that wonderful new blessings are on their way. 2. I expect miracles, and I find them in every moment of change. 3. I joyfully prepare for good things before they arrive, and they always do. |
| N – New Cheese is Always Out There | 1. There is always more good waiting for me—I am open to new success and fulfillment. 2. I trust in the endless supply of opportunities and blessings the Universe provides. 3. I am always guided to the right people, places, and ideas that lead to prosperity. |
| G – Get Ready for Continuous Change | 1. I am flexible, and I welcome life’s beautiful flow of new beginnings. 2. With every breath, I prepare to receive new abundance and greater happiness. 3. I bless the unknown, for I know it holds treasures beyond my dreams. |
| E – Embrace Change as an Adventure | 1. I trust the journey and find joy in every twist and turn. 2. I wake up excited for the unknown gifts today will bring. 3. Life is a beautiful adventure, and I am richly supported every step of the way. |
| I – Internal Change Starts Within | 1. As I change my thoughts, I change my world. 2. I release fear and choose love; abundance flows naturally to me. 3. My inner peace creates outer success. |
| S – Swiftly Adapt to Change | 1. I adjust with ease, and life responds with harmony and prosperity. 2. I am quick to release what no longer serves me, making space for miracles. 3. My flexibility invites blessings to appear in unexpected ways. |
| V – Visualize to Motivate Action | 1. I see myself living a life of wealth, love, and purpose—and it becomes real. 2. I use the power of my mind to attract every good thing I desire. 3. My vision is clear, my belief is strong, and the Universe aligns to support me. |
| I – Identify and Let Go of the Past | 1. I lovingly release the past and set myself free for a glorious future. 2. What once was is complete—I carry forward only love and wisdom. 3. Letting go creates room for abundance to blossom in my life. |
| T – Take Lessons from Your Experience and Laugh at Yourself | 1. I grow wiser with every experience, and I do it with a smile. 2. I forgive myself easily and move forward with grace and confidence. 3. Life loves me, and even my mistakes lead to something better. |
| A – Always Overcome Fear to Move Forward | 1. I feel safe to move forward—life supports me fully. 2. I face my fears with love, and they melt away in the light of my courage. 3. I am fearless in the pursuit of joy, freedom, and abundance. |
| L – Learn to Love the Journey of Change | 1. I cherish each step of my transformation; I am becoming more of who I truly am. 2. The journey itself is the reward—I celebrate every part of my growth. 3. I trust the process of life and find beauty in becoming. |