How to be a Truly Inspiring Leader (In Accordance with Lao Tzu’s Tao Te Ching)

Refine your leadership tendencies with the wise and applicable guidance of Lao Tzu’s Tao Te Ching, written around 400BC.

“With the greatest leader above them, people barely know one exists. Next comes one whom they love and praise. Next comes one whom they fear. Next comes one whom they despise and defy. When a leader trusts no one, no one trusts him. The great leader speaks little. He never speaks carelessly. He works without self-interest and leaves no trace. When all is finished, the people say, ‘We did it ourselves’. — 17th Verse, Tao Te Ching

Most people, whether they realize it or not, exercise some form of leadership. For leadership positions can vary from a direct manager or supervisor to leaders within a specific community. Even mothers and fathers are included, which are some of our most important leaders.

Yet, learning how to navigate the rough terrain of leadership and cultivating the qualities required to be an inspiring leader can be a tricky endeavor. Luckily, we can always turn to Lao Tzu’s Tao Te Ching for guidance. Although this sacred text was written almost 2,500 years ago, it continues to offer us the timeless wisdom required within the realm of leadership.