The sage acts without taking credit. He accomplishes without dwelling on it. He does not want to display his worth.
Interpretation
True wisdom involves selflessness and humility in one's actions.
This quote from Laozi emphasizes the importance of acting with humility and without seeking recognition for one's actions. A wise person focuses on the deeds themselves rather than personal glory, embodying the essence of selflessness and true contribution to the world.
In practice
During a keynote speech on leadership, one might quote Laozi to emphasize the importance of humility in guiding others.
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.
To pay attention, this is our endless and proper work.
I've discovered that rejections are not altogether a bad thing. They teach a writer to rely on his own judgment and to say in his heart of hearts, 'To hell with you.'
Well, I think we tried very hard not to be overconfident, because when you get overconfident, that's when something snaps up and bites you.
What good shall I do this day?
I feel that there is reason lurking in you somewhere, so we will patiently grope round for it.
Live neither in the past nor in the future, but let each day's work absorb your entire energies, and satisfy your widest ambition.
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