Lao Tzu, the founder of Taoism, offers profound guidance on aligning one’s life with the natural flow of the universe. Here are six principles inspired by his teachings to help you achieve harmony and balance.
All streams flow to the sea because it is lower than they are. Humility gives it its power. If you want to govern the people, you must place yourself below them. If you want to lead the people, you must learn how to follow them.
Lao Tzu
6 principles of life according to Lao Tzu
Lao Tzu says we need to release our ego
Let go of self-imposed labels and societal expectations. By shedding these artificial identities, you open yourself to becoming who you truly are. Letting go of the ego means releasing attachments to titles, roles, and the need for constant validation. Lao Tzu teaches that clinging to identity creates resistance to growth. The ego thrives on comparison, competition, and control, making it harder to experience genuine peace. By dropping the desire to appear successful or important, you open space for authenticity. Practicing mindfulness and reflecting on what truly fulfills you can help soften the ego’s grip. True freedom emerges when you embrace your essence, not your status. More: How to stop repeating the same mistake and learn from it?
How to practice:
- Regularly question why you react to criticism or praise.
- Engage in activities that nourish your soul, not just your reputation.
- Spend time in nature, where there are no labels or judgments.
Practice humility
Avoid the relentless pursuit of being first or superior. Embrace humility, recognizing that true strength lies in understanding your place within the greater whole. Humility isn’t about thinking less of yourself but recognizing the interconnectedness of life. Lao Tzu believed that true leaders and wise individuals are those who do not seek power or dominance but instead act with quiet confidence. Humility allows you to learn from others, appreciate differences, and avoid unnecessary conflict. It reminds you that life flows smoother when you stop needing to “win” every situation. More: What’s the difference between modesty and humility
How to practice:
- Celebrate others’ successes without comparing.
- Approach conversations with the intent to listen, not just to respond.
- Reflect on moments when pride or arrogance blocked personal growth.
Embrace ‘Wu Wei’ (Effortless action)
Align your actions with the natural rhythms of life. Instead of forcing outcomes, allow events to unfold organically, trusting the process without unnecessary interference. Wu Wei is the art of flowing with life rather than against it. This doesn’t mean being passive but aligning your actions with the natural current of events. It’s about recognizing when to step forward and when to step back. Forcing situations out of impatience often leads to frustration and burnout. Wu Wei invites you to trust the unfolding process and remain present. More: 5 basic meditation techniques
How to practice:
- Pay attention to areas of life where you feel resistance or force.
- Practice patience and trust that solutions often reveal themselves with time.
- Let go of rigid plans and allow room for spontaneity and natural growth.
Accept the change
Acknowledge that change is an inherent aspect of life. By accepting and adapting to transitions, you cultivate resilience and facilitate personal growth. Change is inevitable, and resisting it leads to suffering. Lao Tzu teaches that those who accept the ebb and flow of life develop resilience and inner peace. When you accept change, you shift from fear to adaptability. This acceptance allows you to grow through experiences rather than cling to the past or worry about the future. More: 8 Transformative Sadhguru quotes
How to practice:
- When facing challenges, ask: “What can this teach me?”
- Embrace uncertainty by seeing it as an opportunity for new beginnings.
- Reflect on past transitions and how they led to growth or unexpected rewards.
Cultivate contentment
Find satisfaction in what you have rather than constantly seeking more. This mindset fosters inner peace and reduces the stress associated with perpetual desire. Constantly chasing more leaves little room for gratitude and joy. Lao Tzu emphasizes appreciating the present moment and finding satisfaction in simplicity. Contentment doesn’t mean avoiding ambition but understanding that happiness isn’t dependent on external achievements. More: Mooji: How to love without attachment
How to practice:
- Keep a gratitude journal to remind yourself of daily blessings.
- Limit unnecessary consumption and focus on experiences over material possessions.
- Reflect on how often you desire more and question whether it truly enhances your life.
Lao Tzu advises us to accept our flaws
Embrace your imperfections as part of your unique nature. Self-acceptance leads to confidence and improves your relationships with others, promoting a harmonious existence. True harmony comes from embracing your imperfections. Lao Tzu encourages recognizing flaws as part of your unique nature rather than trying to hide or fix them. Self-acceptance leads to greater confidence, allowing you to form deeper connections with others. When you stop striving for perfection, life feels lighter and more genuine. More: Carl Gustav Jung and shadow work: Face your dark side
How to practice:
- Reflect on areas where you judge yourself harshly and practice self-compassion.
- Remind yourself that everyone carries imperfections, and that’s what makes us human.
- Focus on progress, not perfection. Small, consistent growth creates long-term change.
