Simulated disorder postulates perfect discipline; simulated fear postulates courage; simulated weakness postulates strength.

Governing a large state is like boiling a small fish.

What is strong and rigid is snapped and laid low. What is flexible and soft will always prevail.

A follower of the Way (Tao) loses something each day. Loss after loss until arriving at Non Action (Wu Wei).

A good manager is best when people barely know that he exists. Not so good when people obey and acclaim him. Worse when they despise him.

When merit has been achieved, do not take it to yourself; for if you do not take it to yourself, it shall never be taken from you.

A foolish man is always doing, Yet much remains to be done.