A Taoist Approach to Human-Hearted Leadership in a Time of Crisis

How small, consistent, compassionate actions create momentum for social transformation.

Verse 63 of the Tao Te Ching offers sage advice for compassionate change-makers:

“Resolve the difficult
Through the easy.
Achieve the great
Through the small.
The difficult work in this world
Must begin with the easy;
The great work in this world
Must begin with the small.
That is why the wise,
To the last,
Do not struggle for greatness–
And it is why they are able
To achieve it.” *

True transformation begins with small, intentional actions.

This wisdom is especially vital for those committed to upholding our common humanity, dignity, equity, and respect.

The 2025 Trump regime is still in its early days (though it already feels too long). Yet, it has swiftly eroded widely accepted moral values, undermined basic human rights, and mocked ethical behaviour, the rule of law, facts, and truth.

If we who oppose the oligarchic take-over of governments, prejudice, hatred, racism, and violence are to overcome this chaotic disruption to society and democracy, we need to ‘begin with the easy’ and the small.

When countless individuals take small, consistent actions, they create the momentum needed for transformation.

If we focus on greatness (in the form of adulation or recognition) instead of dignity and respect for all people as the goal, we will lose against those in power who think they are great and better than everyone else.

For those who disrespect our common humanity, hubris will be their downfall.

The energy required to sustain hatred and self-centred greed is ultimately unsustainable — it erodes the mind, body, and spirit. These emotional states are physically and psychically…