QuoteProject
Practice not-doing and everything will fall into place.
Laozi
ShareWTF𝕏

Interpretation

What this quote means

Embrace inaction to find harmony and clarity in life.

This quote by Laozi suggests that by letting go of the constant need to control or force situations, one can achieve a natural flow in life. It emphasizes the importance of stillness and being present, allowing things to unfold as they are meant to without interference.

Themes

Not-DoingHarmonyLetting GoWisdomPatience

In practice

Example use cases

In a meditation workshop, the instructor quoted this to highlight the value of mindfulness.

More from Laozi

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.
LaoziRead
When nothing is done, nothing is left undone.
LaoziRead
A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving.
LaoziRead
Knowing others is wisdom, knowing yourself is enlightenment.
LaoziRead
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.
LaoziRead
Rule your mind with serenity rather than with force and manipulation.
LaoziRead

Similar quotes

The unexpected action of deep listening can create a space of transformation capable of shattering complacency and despair.
Terry Tempest WilliamsRead
Know, thou, that the lines that live are turned out of a furrowed brow.
Herman MelvilleRead
Human culture has always had to exist under the shadow of something infinitely more important than itself. If men had postponed the search for knowledge and beauty until they were secure, the search would never have begun.
C. S. LewisRead
Put aside your need for a step-by-step manual and instead realize that analogies are your best friend.
Seth GodinRead
There is nothing foolish about hope.
N.K. JemisinRead
But the upside of painful knowledge is so much greater than the downside of blissful ignorance.
Sheryl SandbergRead

A little wisdom, now and then

Subscribe for the occasional hand-picked quote. No noise.