In dwelling, live close to the ground._x000D_ _x000D_ In thinking, keep to the simple._x000D_ _x000D_ In conflict, be fair and generous._x000D_ _x000D_ In governing, don't try to control._x000D_ _x000D_ In work, do what you enjoy._x000D_ _x000D_ In family life, be completely present.
Interpretation
This quote advises a simple and mindful approach to various aspects of life.
Laozi emphasizes the importance of simplicity and presence in different facets of living. By suggesting that we dwell near the ground, keep thinking simple, handle conflict with fairness, govern with a lighter touch, pursue enjoyable work, and be fully present with family, he guides us to a harmonious and fulfilling life that prioritizes authenticity, kindness, and satisfaction.
In practice
During a team meeting, I might share this quote to encourage simplicity in our discussions.
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.
. . from this moment The very firstlings of my heart shall be The firstlings of my hand. And even now, To crown my thoughts with acts, be it thought and done.
I never think of myself as wise. I think of myself as possessing a critical intelligence which I intend to allow to operate.
If you turn the imagination loose like a hunting dog, it will often return with the bird in its mouth.
I got a fortune cookie that said, "To remember is to understand." I have never forgotten it. A good judge remembers what it was like to be a lawyer. A good editor remembers being a writer. A good parent remembers what it was like to be a child.
The most exhausting thing you can do is to be inauthentic.
To go out of your mind once a day is tremendously important, because by going out of your mind you come to your senses. And if you stay in your mind all of the time, you are over rational, in other words you are like a very rigid bridge which because it has no give; no craziness in it, is going to be blown down by the first hurricane.
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