He who is able to conquer others is powerful; he who is able to conquer himself is more powerful.
Interpretation
True power lies in self-mastery rather than external conquest.
This quote by Laozi emphasizes the distinction between external dominance and internal control. While conquering others may seem powerful, the ability to master oneself β including oneβs emotions, desires, and instincts β reflects a deeper and more significant strength.
In practice
During a leadership seminar to illustrate the importance of self-control.
If you understand others you are smart._x000D_ If you understand yourself you are illuminated._x000D_ If you overcome others you are powerful._x000D_ If you overcome yourself you have strength._x000D_ If you know how to be satisfied you are rich._x000D_ If you can act with vigor, you have a will._x000D_ If you don't lose your objectives you can be long-lasting._x000D_ If you die without loss, you are eternal.
When nothing is done, nothing is left undone.
A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving.
Knowing others is wisdom, knowing yourself is enlightenment.
In the world there is nothing more submissive and weak than water. Yet for attacking that which is hard and strong nothing can surpass it.
Rule your mind with serenity rather than with force and manipulation.
Most organizations don't fall apart as a result of one big blow. Most relationships don't end because of one grand argument. Most lives don't fall to pieces due to one sad event. No, I suggest to you that sustained failure happens as the consequence of small, daily acts of neglect that stack up over time to lead to a blow up - and break down.
I endeavor to be wise when I cannot be merry, easy when I cannot be glad, content with what cannot be mended, and patient when there be no redress.
All progress is based upon a universal innate desire on the part of every organism to live beyond its income.
I call intuition cosmic fishing. You feel a nibble, then you've got to hook the fish.
Our great mistake is to try to exact from each person virtues which he does not possess, and to neglect the cultivation of those which he has.
Never complain and never explain.
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