The concept of adaptability and flexibility in thinking and behavior is central to success, both in life and in the workplace. 

In the world of NLP (Neuro-Linguistic Programming) coaching, there’s a key presupposition that states, “The person with the most flexibility of thinking and behavior will control the system.” 

But what does this really mean, and why is it so important?

This idea is brilliantly illustrated in Spencer Johnson’s 1998 bestseller, Who Moved My Cheese? The book is written as a fable, telling the story of two mice and two “little people” who live in a Maze and spend their days searching for Cheese. 

The Cheese in the story represents anything you desire in life—happiness, success, or security. The Maze symbolizes the environment in which you search for that Cheese, whether it’s your workplace, relationships, or personal goals.

When this book was released, it took the business world by storm. Companies across the globe, including the one I worked for, made it mandatory reading for their employees. The reason for this widespread enthusiasm was simple: the book’s message is a powerful metaphor for change, something that every individual and organization must confront at some point.

In the story, the characters react differently when their Cheese, which had always been in the same spot, suddenly disappears. The mice, being simple creatures, quickly adapt. They don’t overthink the situation; they simply move on and start looking for new Cheese. 

On the other hand, the “little people,” who represent more complex human beings, struggle with the change. One of them eventually decides to venture out and find new Cheese, learning valuable lessons along the way. The other, however, refuses to leave the spot where the Cheese used to be, hoping it will return. Unfortunately, it never does.

The story’s moral is clear: change is inevitable, and how you respond to it determines your success or failure. You can resist change, clinging to the way things were, but this usually leads to frustration, stagnation, and even failure. Or you can embrace change, adapt to new circumstances, and move forward, which often leads to growth and new opportunities.

In the context of NLP coaching, this flexibility of thought and behavior is crucial. When you’re flexible, you’re able to adjust your approach, think creatively, and find new solutions when things don’t go as planned. This adaptability gives you the power to control your environment and navigate challenges more effectively.

For example, if you’re working in a company that suddenly changes its structure or strategy, the people who adapt quickly will thrive. They’ll find new ways to succeed in the changed environment. Those who resist the change, waiting for things to go back to the way they were, will likely struggle or be left behind.

The lessons from Who Moved My Cheese? are not just about surviving change but thriving in it. The book encourages readers to sniff out changes early, anticipate them, and act quickly. It teaches that waiting for things to return to “normal” is often a recipe for failure because the old normal might never return.

So, when life doesn’t go as planned, you have a choice. You can whine, complain, and do nothing, which will likely lead to stagnation and disappointment. Or, you can embrace the change, adapt your thinking, and take bold steps to chase after your new Cheese—whatever that may be. 

The choice is yours… It always is!! 

Jayne Goldman, MBA, C.Ht., Founder and Principal of Best Life Hypnotherapy in Los Angeles, is a Certified Hypnotherapist and NLP Master NLP Practitioner and Coach.