96 • SEPTEMBER 2025 • PPAI Title: Who Moved My Cheese? Author: Spencer Johnson Community | Book Club A DECEPTIVELY SIMPLE PARABLE with a powerful punch, Who Moved My Cheese? by Spencer Johnson is a classic that’s just as relevant today as it was when I first encountered it in college. Johnson’s story explores how individuals and organizations respond to change, and it does so in a way that’s engaging, memorable and surprisingly actionable. Why I chose this book: This was one of the first books I read that connected personal development with professional success. Rereading it now, through the lens of leadership and industry growth, it’s clear why this book has stood the test of time. In a world where change is constant, especially in our industry, it’s a reminder to stay adaptable, curious and forward-focused. I recommend it for: Honestly, change is inevitable in every role in every organization. A few people that might really connect with this content are professionals navigating change (new roles, restructures, shifting markets, etc.), and teams managing transitions and looking for a shared language around adaptability, as well as anyone needing a mindset reset or reminder that progress often starts with perspective. Key points: • Change is inevitable, so stop wasting time resisting it: The longer we stay stuck in the past, the further we fall behind. Embracing change not only opens the door to new opportunities but also builds the agility needed to thrive in an everevolving world. • Adapt quickly: The sooner you let go of old assumptions, the sooner you can embrace new opportunities. Clinging to outdated beliefs only delays progress and limits your potential for growth and success. • Monitor your “cheese”: Stay aware of shifts in your business and personal environment so you’re not caught off guard. If it feels like it is something, trust your gut. Being proactive allows you to respond strategically rather than react out of fear or desperation. • Overthinking can hold you back: Sometimes, action is more important than over-analysis. Progress often comes from taking decisive steps, even if they’re imperfect, rather than waiting for the elusive “perfect” plan. • Fear is natural but manageable: Taking a step into the unknown is often the first move toward growth. Remember: Courage isn’t the absence of fear – it’s the decision to move forward despite it. My takeaway: At under 100 pages, Who Moved My Cheese? is a fast, impactful read, ideal for a weekend recharge or a team book club pick. Whether you’re leading others or learning to lead yourself, this book offers timeless wisdom in a format that sticks. Its simple storytelling makes complex ideas about change and resilience easy to grasp and hard to forget. Readers often find themselves referring to its lessons long after finishing the final page, making it a lasting tool for personal and professional growth. What should I read next? My library of business books is large, but I’m always looking to build it out. If you have any suggestions for business books that are meaningful to you, please let me know at JGR@ppai.org, and after I give it a read, I’ll share my impressions in PPAI Magazine. Gibbons-Rauch is PPAI’s senior manager of professional development. Spencer Johnson’s tale may appear simple at first glance, but it delivers a profound message about how both individuals and organizations navigate change. By Jessica GibbonsRauch, MBA, CAS Who Moved My Cheese?
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