Summertime inspires me to live bigger with the longer days of sunlight and the bright colors of everything in bloom. This year, in particular, is a time when looking forward to what’s next in politics and social change is animating conversations.  It feels like we have turned a corner. Collectively, we experienced the lack of control during the pandemic years. To date, I still view life as the one before and one after the three years of uncertainty.  Think of your own experiences in the past decade. How have you changed

Prior to the pandemic I wrote a column on inevitability of change and the power of adaptability using the best-selling book Who Moved My Cheese? which offers life lessons that never go stale. Dr. Spencer Johnson wrote this easy read in 1998. Since its publication, the book has sold over forty-six million copies in forty-seven different languages. Reading my old post today feels like I was in a very different headspace. I figured it is time to update my vision of what new cheese is out there to inspire you as these characters navigate change and how these approaches can serve as metaphors for your own experiences.

Here’s a quick synopsis of Who Moved My Cheese?, we meet four characters: two mice named Sniff and Scurry, and two little people named Hem and Haw. Each of these characters represents different attitudes towards change. Sniff and Scurry are optimistic and proactive, always ready to venture into the maze in search of new cheese when their current supply runs out. They symbolize those of us who embrace change with enthusiasm and see it as an opportunity for growth. On the other hand, Hem and Haw initially resist change. Hem, in particular, is paralyzed by fear and denial, refusing to leave his comfort zone even when his cheese is gone. Haw eventually learns to adapt but not without a struggle. These characters embody the hesitation, anxiety, and resistance that many of us feel when confronted with the unknown.

The cheese in this story represents whatever we consider essential. As we age, this cheese could symbolize our ability to live independently and maintain a good quality of life. It involves navigating a complex maze of decisions, obstacles, and opportunities that will ultimately determine our quality of life as we grow older.

In today’s fast-paced world, where the landscape of healthcare, finances, and personal well-being is constantly shifting, it’s easy to feel like we’re not in control of our destiny. But by taking proactive steps and embracing change, we can build a plan that helps us age with dignity, independence, and joy. But just like in the book, the “cheese” we depend on can be moved, and when it is, are we able to adapt?

One of the most significant benefits of planning is the potential to live a longer, healthier life. People who commit to healthy habits, such as regular exercise, a balanced diet, and mental wellness practices, are more likely to enjoy a longer lifespan. Stress is a natural part of life, but it’s how we manage it that matters. Practicing mindfulness, meditation, or prayer can help us stay calm and focused, even in the face of change. As Hem struggles with the anxiety of losing his cheese, we learn that embracing mindfulness can help us navigate life’s challenges with greater ease.

We are what we eat. Aging well starts with what we put into our bodies. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans not only supports overall health but also helps prevent chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. It is a challenge to change diet, but the potential benefits are hard to deny. In addition, maintaining a healthy weight is beneficial as we age. By practicing mindful eating and drinking—only consuming what our bodies need to feel satisfied—we can avoid overeating and the potential health problems that come with it. Hem and Haw might have been reluctant to leave their comfort zone, but we can take a cue from Sniff and Scurry by seeking out healthier options that will sustain us in the long run.

We are what we eat. Aging well starts with what we put into our bodies. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and beans not only supports overall health but also helps prevent chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

It is a challenge to change diet, but the potential benefits are hard to deny. In addition, maintaining a healthy weight is beneficial as we age. By practicing mindful eating and drinking—only consuming what our bodies need to feel satisfied—we can avoid overeating and the potential health problems that come with it. Hem and Haw might have been reluctant to leave their comfort zone, but we can take a cue from Sniff and Scurry by seeking out healthier options that will sustain us in the long run.

Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining muscle strength, cardiovascular health, and overall vitality. However, this doesn’t mean we need to spend hours at the gym. Instead, we can incorporate natural movements into our daily routines, such as gardening, walking, or biking. Like Sniff and Scurry, who instinctively move through the maze in search of cheese, we can find joy in staying active and engaged in our communities.

Human connection is a vital component of aging well. Spending time with family and friends not only brings joy but also reduces stress and can even extend our lifespan. By staying connected with trusted family and friends, we create a support network that helps us face uncertainties.  A strong sense of community provides us with a sense of belonging and purpose. Being part of a supportive community means that we have people to rely on during times of need and to share in our joys and struggles.

What floats your boat? As we age, it’s essential to focus on activities that bring us inner peace and happiness. Rekindle an old hobby, meditate, try something new or simply silence the noise of the internet and television and listen to the voice within you.  Like the characters in Who Moved My Cheese?, who must navigate the maze’s twists and turns, we can find solace and rejuvenation in the natural world around us. Access to clean air, fresh water, and the beauty of nature is a gift ripe for picking. Spend time outdoors soaking up the sunlight and fresh air can reduce stress and promote mental clarity. Ultimately, the goal of planning is to live a better, more fulfilling life. How will you cultivate happiness?

Who Moved My Cheese? offers valuable insights into how we can navigate the changes and challenges that come with aging. Apply the lessons from this easy read to create a longevity mindset. The reward is the feeling of empowerment and confidence about the future. By embracing healthy habits, staying connected with loved ones, and finding joy in the simple things, we can ensure that our later years are rich with purpose and happiness. Like Haw, who learns to appreciate the journey rather than just the destination, we too can find contentment in the everyday moments of life. Happy Summer.  Happy reading.