Act without doing; work without effort. Think of the small as large and the few as many. Confront the difficult while it is still easy; accomplish the great task by a series of small acts. The Master never reaches for the great; thus she achieves greatness. When she runs into a difficulty, she stops and gives herself to it. She doesn't cling to her own comfort; thus problems are no problem for her.
Interpretation
Focus on small actions to achieve greatness without excessive effort.
This quote from Laozi emphasizes the importance of approaching tasks with a sense of ease and fluidity. It suggests that true mastery comes from recognizing the significance of small actions and facing challenges calmly, instead of becoming overwhelmed by them. By detaching from the need for constant struggle or clinging to comfort, one can navigate difficulties more effectively and reach greater heights without unnecessary strain.
In practice
This quote can be used to inspire a team tackling a large project by reminding them of the importance of incremental progress.
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.
At this age, I should be leading a quiet life.
The trite objects of human efforts-possessions, superficial success, luxury-have always seemed contemptible to me.
You are more than you think you are. There are dimensions of your being and a potential for realization and consciousness that are not included in your concept of yourself. Your life is much deeper and broader than you conceive it to be here. What you are living is but a fractional inkling of what is really within you, what gives you life, breadth, and depth.
When the basis for your actions is inner alignment with the present moment, your actions become empowered by the intelligence of life itself.
I have found it very important in my own life to try to let go of my wishes and instead to live in hope. I am finding that when I choose to let go of my sometimes petty and superficial wishes and trust that my life is precious and meaningful in the eyes of God something really new, something beyond my own expectations begins to happen for me. (Finding My Way Home)
The silence of a wise man is always meaningful.
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