As for the "proper way:" it is the beginning of disorder.

Therefore the Sage, wishing to be above the people, must by his words put himself below them; wishing to be before the people, he must put himself behind them. In this way, though he has his place above them, the people do not feel his weight; though he has his place before them, they do not feel it as an injury. Therefore all mankind delight to exalt him, and weary of him not.

There is no greater mistake than to make light of an enemy By making light of an enemy many a kingdom has been lost.

A tree that can fill the span of a man's arms grows from a downy tip; A terrace nine stories high rises from level earth; A journey of a thousand miles starts from beneath one's feet.

Without law or compulsion, men would dwell in harmony.

That which shrinks must first expand.

Governing a large country is like frying a small fish. You spoil it with too much poking.