One thing I have learned the past three years is that change is inevitable. Between being merged, acquired, expanded, and nearly bankrupt, I find I am in a constant state of change. For someone who is used to consistency and structure, the last few years have been challenging. I either had to cope with the changes and make the best of them or become extinct.

Years ago a small book was published titled, "Who Moved My Cheese," by Spencer Johnson. Let me recap the story. The book features four characters: two mice and two little people. They live in a maze, a representation of one's environment, and look for cheese, representative of happiness and success. Initially without cheese, each group pair off and travel the lengthy corridors searching for cheese. One day both groups happen upon a cheese-filled corridor at "Cheese Station C." Content with their find, the humans establish routines around their daily intake of cheese, slowly becoming arrogant in the process. Basically they become fat and happy.

One day the mice arrive at Cheese Station C to find no cheese left, but they are not surprised. Noticing the cheese supply dwindling, they have mentally prepared themselves for the arduous but inevitable task of finding more cheese. They leave Cheese Station C behind and begin their search for new cheese. Later that same day, the humans arrive at Cheese Station C and find the same thing. Angered and annoyed and after recognizing that the cheese is indeed gone, they complain of the unfairness of the situation and both go home starved. Returning the next day, the humans find the same cheeseless place. They feel victimized and again become angry and blame everyone around them.

This is so true to what has happened to all of us at one time or another. An event has occurred that has moved our cheese. Some moves are good and some not so good. We just need to remember that:

Change Happens - Someone is always moving the cheese

Anticipate Change - Get ready for the cheese to move

Monitor Change - Smell the cheese often so you know when it is getting old

Adapt to Change Quickly - The quicker you let go of the old you will enjoy the new

Change - Move with the cheese

Enjoy Change - Savor the adventure and enjoy the taste of the new cheese

Be Ready to Change Quickly and Enjoy it Again - The cheese just keeps on moving

Sometimes we find that our cheese has not only moved but melted. As we push through the remaining ooze, remain focused on the end game. Nothing can substitute for good, honest hard work. Put your nose to the grindstone and do the work. A positive outcome will eventually be achieved. Sooner or later, someone will notice your accomplishments and you will be rewarded.