Therefore: In dwelling, choose modest quarters, in thinking, value stillness, in dealing with others, be kind, in choosing words, be sincere, in leading, be just, in working, be competent, in acting, choose the correct timing. Follow these words and there will be no error.
Interpretation
This quote emphasizes the importance of humility, mindfulness, kindness, sincerity, fairness, competence, and timing in various aspects of life.
Laozi's quote encourages individuals to approach different areas of life with humility, calmness, and sincerity. It highlights that by choosing modesty in living spaces, valuing stillness in thought, practicing kindness in interactions, being sincere in communication, maintaining justice in leadership, striving for competence in work, and acting at the right moment, one can navigate life successfully and avoid potential errors or pitfalls.
In practice
This quote can be shared during a leadership workshop to emphasize the qualities of a good leader.
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.
The cat, having sat upon a hot stove lid, will not sit upon a hot stove lid again. Nor upon a cold stove lid.
Knowledge is one thing, virtue is another.
Simplicity and sincerity generally go hand in hand, as both proceed from a love of truth.
They are all alike you know. They hold their tongues for years and you think you're safe, but when the opportunity comes they remember everything.
Every man must decide for himself whether he shall master his world or be mastered by it.
Attacking bad books is not only a waste of time but also bad for the character. If I find a book really bad, the only interest I can derive from writing about it has to come from myself, from such display of intelligence, wit and malice as I can contrive. One cannot review a bad book without showing off.
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