Lao Tzu Quotes

On starting a huge project that feels impossible to finish:

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

On choosing self reflection over winning an argument:

Knowing others is wisdom, knowing yourself is enlightenment.

On repairing a relationship with patience instead of force:

The softest things in the world overcome the hardest things in the world.

On turning down a raise that would cost you your time:

He who knows he has enough is rich.

On leading a team without needing the credit:

A leader is best when people barely know he exists.

On admitting you are in over your head at a new job:

To know that you do not know is the best.

On simplifying a life that has gotten too complicated:

Simplicity, patience, compassion. These three are your greatest treasures.

On staying open to a career path that keeps changing shape:

A good traveler has no fixed plans, and is not intent on arriving.

On waiting out a confusing period instead of forcing a decision:

Muddy water, let stand, becomes clear.

On addressing a small problem at work before it becomes a crisis:

Do the difficult things while they are easy and do the great things while they are small.

Feeling behind schedule on a goal that is actually still unfolding fine:

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

Deciding whether to force a plan or let the situation guide you:

The Master gives himself up to whatever the moment brings.

Choosing a life path your family disapproves of:

Care about what other people think and you will always be their prisoner.

Deciding whether to keep measuring yourself against a sibling or peer:

When you are content to be simply yourself and don't compare or compete, everybody will respect you.

Wondering if you need to change who you are to be accepted:

The snow goose need not bathe to make itself white. Neither need you do anything but be yourself.

Deciding how to react to a rude email from a client:

Respond intelligently even to unintelligent treatment.

Deciding whether to keep fighting a conflict with a partner or stand down:

When two great forces oppose each other, the victory will go to the one that knows how to yield.