Who Moved My Cheese Analysis 1) Name the four characters. ✓ Solved

1) Name the four characters.

2) Describe their personalities or their social styles.

3) Why did the author use two little animals and two little people to make his point?

4) What does the cheese represent?

5) What does the maze represent?

6) What does the story say to you in relation to change?

7) How did each character deal with the above steps in the transition or change cycle?

8) Which character do you represent?

9) What do you feel is the main message from the book?

10) If you had these 4 people working for you, how would you supervise each?

11) What was the lesson that you learned from Who Moved My Cheese that you will take with you in the workplace?

Paper For Above Instructions

In Spencer Johnson’s renowned parable, "Who Moved My Cheese?", the characters embody various responses to change and adaptation in the face of life's uncertainties. The four central figures are Sniff, Scurry, Hem, and Haw, each representing distinct personality traits and approaches to dealing with change. Their interactions and experiences in the maze serve as a metaphor for the real-life challenges individuals face concerning change.

1. Naming the Four Characters

The four characters in "Who Moved My Cheese?" are Sniff, Scurry, Hem, and Haw. Sniff represents an intuitive individual who quickly senses change, while Scurry symbolizes a proactive person ready to take immediate action. Conversely, Hem embodies resistance to change, clinging to the past, and Haw represents the gradual acceptance of change.

2. Describing Their Personalities

Sniff's personality is characterized by his acute awareness of his surroundings. He is always on the lookout for potential changes in the environment. Scurry complements Sniff’s intuitiveness with a sense of urgency, focusing on action and problem-solving immediately when faced with challenges. In contrast, Hem is skeptical and fearful of change; he resists it, hoping to return to the status quo. Haw, initially similar to Hem, undergoes a transformation, learning to embrace change and adapt his behavior over time.

3. The Significance of Two Animals and Two People

The author uses the two little animals, Sniff and Scurry, alongside the two little people, Hem and Haw, to highlight different responses to change across a spectrum of personalities. This juxtaposition illustrates that both instinctual (animalistic) and rational (human) approaches are essential in navigating the challenges posed by change. By presenting this combination, the author emphasizes that various coping mechanisms can coexist and that insight can come from understanding both instinct and reasoning.

4. The Cheese Representation

In the parable, the cheese symbolizes happiness, success, and fulfillment—anything that individuals might desire in life, such as career success, relationships, or financial stability. The search for cheese captures the audience’s universal pursuit of those rewarding elements.

5. The Maze Representation

The maze represents the environment individuals navigate to pursue their cheese. This could be the workplace, relationships, or any other context where striving for goals takes place. The complexities and twists in the maze reflect the unforeseen challenges and obstacles that one encounters in life.

6. The Story's Message on Change

The central message of the story regarding change is that it is inevitable and essential to accept it. The narrative urges readers to remain vigilant, adaptable, and willing to explore new avenues when faced with shifts in circumstances. Embracing change leads to personal and professional growth, and resisting it may lead to stagnation.

7. Each Character's Response to Change

In the transition phase, Sniff and Scurry respond quickly to the disappearance of the cheese, immediately embarking on a journey through the maze to find new cheese. Hem, however, remains stubbornly unwilling to accept the situation, refusing to leave the empty stockpile of cheese. Haw, starting painfully resistant, gradually learns to overcome his fears and takes steps into the maze to seek new opportunities, highlighting the possibility of transformation when one confronts challenges.

8. Personal Representation

Identifying with one of the characters can offer valuable reflections on personal behavior. Many individuals may find aspects of themselves in Haw, who encapsulates the struggle against resistance and the journey towards acceptance. The transformational aspect of Haw's character can resonate with people engaged in change management in their own lives.

9. The Main Message from the Book

The primary takeaway from "Who Moved My Cheese?" is the importance of flexibility in life. Change is inevitable; those who can adapt quickly are positioned to succeed. The treatise illustrates that our fears can hinder progress and that doubt must be conquered to explore potential opportunities.

10. Supervising the Four Characters

In a workplace scenario, effective supervision would require recognizing the unique characteristics of each member. For Sniff, providing an environment that fosters creativity and intuition is essential. Scurry would thrive in a role that promotes immediate action and responsiveness. Hem would require guidance and reassurance to embrace change gently, while Haw would benefit from encouragement and support to champion his gradual adaptation and development.

11. Lessons for the Workplace

The most impactful lesson learned from "Who Moved My Cheese?" is the necessity of adaptability in the workplace. In a rapidly evolving professional landscape, remaining stagnant is detrimental. Individuals must learn to identify and navigate change proactively, encouraging a culture of flexibility and support among peers.

In summary, Johnson's parable dexterously uses its characters and settings to articulate the challenges of change, inviting readers to introspect and adapt their own mindset. The philosophies imparted in the text extend well beyond its pages, offering timeless lessons applicable to both personal and professional realms.

References

  • Johnson, Spencer. (2017). Who Moved My Cheese. Video.

  • Hellriegel, Don, & Slocum, John W. (2011). Organizational Behavior. South-Western Cengage Learning.

  • Kotter, John P. (1996). Leading Change. Harvard Business Review Press.

  • Adams, Steven. (2009). The Psychology of Change: The Impact of Change in the Workplace. HarperCollins.

  • Bridges, William. (2009). Managing Transitions: Making the Most of Change. Da Capo Lifelong Books.

  • Fullan, Michael. (2001). Leading in a Culture of Change. Jossey-Bass.

  • Schien, Edgar H. (2010). Organizational Culture and Leadership. John Wiley & Sons.

  • Hiatt, Jeffrey. (2006). ADKAR: A Model for Change in Business, Government, and our Community. Prosci.

  • Dutton, Jane E., & Spreitzer, Gretchen M. (2014). How to Be a Positive Leader: Small Actions, Big Impact. Berrett-Koehler Publishers.

  • Senge, Peter M. (2006). The Fifth Discipline: The Art and Practice of the Learning Organization. Crown Business.