Description

Who likes change? No matter how much you deny it, “Change is the only constant”. Speaking scientifically, in Darwin’s words, “It is not the stronger of the species that survives, not the most intelligent that survives. It is the one that is most adaptable to change”. The one who adapts to change quickly is the one who progresses faster or progresses at all. Whereas the one who refuses to get out of his/her comfort zones is stuck in one place and position forever without any growth in life. And what is progress if not growth? As we are aware, change is a continuous process, it doesn’t happen overnight. This very second, the world within and around you are changing. Some people keep a check about everything, their health, finance, relationships, etc. They are keen observers; hence they are aware and ready for any sort of upcoming change. The alert action takers, one might call them. On the other hand, some people realise change happening, but they are too lazy to bother about it. They take it leniently and later get themselves in trouble. Are you one of them?

About the Book

Characters

Sniff: Such people sniff even the smallest change occurring in their lives. They are always alert and observant.

Scurry: Such people are again, observant and take actions immediately.

Hem: People who don’t pay heed to change and discourage others as well.

Haw: People who decide to act when time is slipping away.

The story consists of these four characters, Sniff and Scurry, the mice and Hem and Haw, the little people who live together in a maze. Each day, a heap of cheese awaits to be relished by them. Life is good with ample food! Until…. The amount of cheese starts decreasing every day. The mice, observant that they are, notice this, make plans and take actions in search of new cheese. The little person Hem is adamant. He waits until the cheese reappears or someone puts it back. He is too lazy to find a way out. Haw initially denied changing himself in Hem’s influence. But slowly it dawns on him how stupid he has been to unnotice change in the first place. He realises that in order to keep his belly full, he himself has to take action. Haw sets out, a little uncertain and fearful of the oblivion to find new cheese. His ultimate aim is to find cheese, but he gains a lot more from his journey.

About the Author

Doctor Spencer Johnson (November 24, 1938- 2 July 3, 2017) was an American physician, an author and a renowned management consultant. His book, The One Minute Manager is a big hit. Other notable works are of course Who moved my cheese? and the Value Tale series. Out of the maze is a sequel to Who moved my cheese? with reference to Johnson’s struggle with cancer leading to his death. All of his books are rightfully labelled as best sellers and are life lessoned by a number of businessmen and corporates.

Conclusion

It is always the tiniest books which hold within heavy wisdom, like this one. It takes merely half an hour to read this book, but it contains insights for a lifetime. For all ages, eras and people, since change doesn’t escape anyone. It is like a story told to you by a kid. Short, sweet and simple to listen, but contains depth and truth. The idea of this book covers all areas of life. It tells us how to enjoy and evolve with change. The book effectively convinces how to suffer less stress and enjoy more success in work and life. A must read for people who have a Hem and Haw in them.

A parable that will stick with you like a childhood story!