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.
There is a certain degree of satisfaction in having the courage to admit one's errors. It not only clears up the air of guilt and defensiveness, but often helps solve the problem created by the error
Those who are too lazy and comfortable to think for themselves and be their own judges obey the laws. Others sense their own laws within them.
Time is more valuable than money, because time is irreplaceable.
If you have somebody who's brilliant and highly creative with a different point of view than you have, and a very different intellectual background, great things can happen.
Self-control might be as passionate and as active as the surrender to passion.
Strategic planning is worthless - unless there is first a strategic vision.
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