1. [9] When a capable person sets out to accomplish things
in propitious times, good helpers are attracted to the possibilities and join
in gladly in the work that needs to be done. Good people want to be a part of a
flourishing enterprise, and are gladly connected to the leader with similar
objectives.
2. [9] Every person is able to contribute something to an
enterprise, if they have a willing attitude. A leader, therefore, bears with
those of lesser ability and tries to draw from them whatever they are capable
of contributing. There is much work to be done, and some of it is quite
difficult. Hence, everyone's contribution is needed and of value, and the
attention of all should be directed towards the goals of the enterprise, not
merely personal advancement.
3. [9] Good fortune never moves forward forever. There are
always setbacks and periods of decline. Therefore, in times of good fortune,
the wise leader is always aware that it will sooner or later run its course.
And through whatever turns of Fate that come his way, he remains steadfast and
focused on his worthy objectives.
4. [6] In times of success, the good leader is still
approachable. He is not carried away by his good fortune and does not focus on
his own advancement. He is generous to the lowly, because he knows that every
man, regardless of his station, has a role to play and a contribution to make
in this world.
5. [6] A person of great ability is capable of working under
the direction of someone of lesser status without asserting their superiority.
Such a submissive relationship is conducive to harmony and permits the
accomplishment of necessary tasks.
Top [6] Change brings about the end of good fortune and
prosperity. Decline is inevitable, and violent resistance would only make
matters worse. All a person can do is keep to his worthy goals and be
supportive of those around him that are in agreement with his intentions.
Bottom. [9] When a man first awakens to the proper ways of
living, things are not clear, and there is some degree of confusion. He tries
to discern the workings of fate and life, but his conclusions tend to
contradict one another. With his day-to-day involvement in the world, everything
descends upon him at once. Clarity is demanded of him, but it is difficult to
come by. At such a stage, it is important that the man remain calm and not
allow himself to be rushed. If he maintains his tranquility and contemplates
each situation carefully and in order, the necessary clarity will come in time.
It is the beginning where the greatest difficulty lies. Once he becomes
accustomed to observing his environment with insight and wisdom, his mind will
develop clarity and things will begin to fall into place. It is at the
beginning that clear vision approached quietly and calmly is so important,
because how can he develop the habits of mind that accompany wisdom if he does
not begin carefully and thoroughly?
2. [6] The man is able to approach all things in his
environment with moderation, and this bodes well. He calmly and quietly
contemplates all his involvements and is able to follow the path of wisdom.
Clarity is evident in all that he does. Calmness and moderation attract good
fortune.
3. [9] The man contemplates his mortality and realizes that
his life might soon be over. If he clings to this life, these realizations have
a disturbing effect upon him. Instead of the sense of freedom that allows him
to accept life if it comes, or to accept death if it comes, he feels profound
regret at the thought of the passing of his life and the end of his existence
on this earth. In his desperation, he may try to banish such thoughts by
frantically seeking out all the pleasures that life affords, or he may withdraw
into himself with self-pity and sadness. Either of those choices undermines the
real meaning of growing older. The superior man is not concerned whether death
comes sooner or later. He realizes that the important thing is what his life
consists of as he lives it, and feels certain that whether the rightful path
brings death sooner or later, he is determined upon that path and will accept
whatever is the natural consequence thereof. His focus is on the acquisition of
wisdom, and he welcomes wherever that search leads him.
4. [9] If a man in his anxiety to experience as much of life
as he can, or to accomplish as many great works as he can, burns himself out
too quickly, the lasting effect of his effort will be less than if he had
approached things more slowly, carefully, and thoroughly. By consuming himself
so quickly, he does not give his work time to settle in, to become well
established, and to form a broad and solid foundation. On the other hand, a
series of great works, developed over a long period of time, become
well-established, like a monument. People accept it, become accustomed to it,
and over time find it inconceivable that it should not exist or that something
should replace it. But any kind of work, erected in a hurry does not have time
to become established in the memory of man. As soon as the promoter is gone,
the effect of his work is gone with him. Establishing a great work is not just
a matter of getting it done, but also a matter of establishing it in such a way
that it stays done.
5. [6] Big changes after great accomplishments can have a
shattering effect, but the man who retains his clarity of mind and accepts the
changes as a renewal of life meets good fortune. Others might feel that it is
all over, that there is nothing left but disappointment and decline, especially
when there are no present prospects for something more. But the superior man is
open to the turn of events. He adapts himself to the new circumstances and
looks forward to whatever adventure lies ahead. His attitude of mind attracts
interesting possibilities, and his sorrow over the wrenching changes is seen as
a transitory matter.
Top. [9] The man who is called upon to remedy situations, to
correct errors, to eliminate evildoers, keeps ever in mind his goal, which is
not to destroy, but to make better. It may be necessary to completely eliminate
those who are culpable and ultimately responsible. Leaders who should know
better cannot be let off lightly. But it is enough if those who were merely
drawn in to the debacle correct their behavior, change their ways, and reverse
the path they were on. The idea is not just to punish in order to satisfy some
self-righteous judgment or desire for revenge, but to change behavior and make
the situation better, to enable things to work smoother and more efficiently.
Similarly, in correcting one's own behavior, the purpose is to follow a more
rightful path, and matters of little significance should be overlooked. If
punishments are too severe, they defeat the purposes of correction.
Bottom. [6] At the very beginning, it is best not to make a
big issue of a minor conflict. Find some way to make a reasonable and amicable
accommodation over the thing, before it grows into something big. Rather than
push things to a definite decision with an adversary who has the upper hand,
make a reasonable give and take adjustment. Then, even if some disagreement
arises, it will not go far and can be easily settled.
2. [9] If the opposing forces are definitely stronger, and
one is not likely to succeed against them, it is better to back-off and
concede, rather than pushing things to an open conflict and being humiliated by
defeat. An accommodating attitude is like an offer of goodwill, and all
concerned are able to avoid taking sides in an open conflict.
3. [6] Seeking recognition for something that is not
entirely one's own work only creates distrust and resentment. If one is really
the source, then another is not likely to get far claiming credit.
Nevertheless, if one is working on behalf of and in service to another, he
should not expect to receive public recognition for what he does. His
satisfaction comes from seeing that the work is done and that his superior is
pleased to make use of it. Recognition under such circumstances is not
appropriate, and only detracts from the final outcome.
4. [9] A person may be inclined to enter into a conflict
because he thinks there is some advantage to be had, even when he is not
entirely on the side of right. If he has the upper hand, he may succeed, even
if unjustly. But such a course will not bring lasting satisfaction, and he
should realize this and turn away. Only be remaining on the side of what is
right does a man live with himself satisfactorily. And when he does this, things
turn out well.
5. [9] One need not hesitate to place his case before a
strong and fair judge who can be depended upon to do what is right. If one is
indeed right, only good could come from employing such a referee.
Top. [9] If, contrary to all good advice, a person persists
in conflict without relenting, it may happen that he is actually seen as
victorious. In spite of all, he gets his way and overcomes the opposition. But
it is as a pyrrhic victory that brings no lasting satisfaction and no good results.
He will never be able to rest secure in his supposed accomplishment, and he
will be constantly assaulted in his hard-won position.
[9] Immediately after a significant transition takes place,
the momentum of change is still effective, and there is a tendency for it to be
carried too far. If change is overdone, it creates uncertainty and weakness, a
need for a pullback, and the introduction of confusion that could lead to chaos
and disaster. The wise man, therefore, exercises caution at this time when
everyone else is pushing ahead with elation and recklessness. He holds back,
and even though he may receive some slight injury from the pullback that
necessarily follows when a general movement goes too far, his caution prevents
the minor loss from becoming a major one.
2. [6] After a complete change to a new order of things, a
man feels that the new leadership is ignoring him, and that he lacks the
opportunities that are necessary for the advancement of what he seeks to
accomplish. Those in new positions of leadership may seem content with the
changes that the recent transition has brought, and care nothing for new
projects or developments. They are content to sit back and rest upon what they
have done. Everyone seems to have lost their sense of mission and their
interest in moving forward, and are now chiefly concerned with their own power,
position and reputation. This causes the man to consider some ostentatious way
of bringing his ideas to everyone's attention, but this would be a mistake. If
he becomes a part of the same struggle for power and position that engages
everyone else, all that he intends will be corrupted and will come to naught.
His wisest course is to guard his integrity, maintain his position, consolidate
his resources, refine his plans, and develop his skills in preparation for a
time when they can be profitably employed. After the present hollow scene has
played itself out, a desire for substance and for men with great ideas will
arise, and the man's day will arrive. If he stands firm for his principles and
for his solid vision, if his goals are really worthwhile, it is impossible that
they will lose their value. All he needs to do is wait patiently for the wheel
of Fate to turn, and he will be in a position to realize his goals.
3. [9] When a time of transition is complete and the new
order is well-established, a new and revitalized administration usually seeks
to expand its powers and enlarge its field of influence. It is filled with
energy, and to fail to employ that energy in some constructive way is to invite
stagnation and decline. This can mean a long and difficult struggle to move
into other territories and incorporate them into the expanding enterprise,
however. In order for this to succeed, it must be done correctly and in
accordance with what is right and just. It should not be parceled out to
parvenus who would not be considered worthy to hold a leading position at home.
To expand an operation, but to include inferior people as part of the
expansion, is a sure way to bring on disaster to the entire enterprise.
4. [6] When a transition is complete and a community is at
the height of its power, it is almost inevitable that some kind of scandal will
occur that points to the presence of evil and corruption. This will surely
invoke outrage from the people, but since the general tenor of the transition
is highly favorable, these problems are easily dispensed with, and the people
are mollified. Nevertheless, the wise man looks upon these outcroppings of
corruption as for causes, and takes corrective action.
5. [9] In the evolution of civilization, there occurs growth
and development in the ways men express their spiritual feelings. This, too, is
subject to transitional periods in which simple devotion is replaced by more
complex forms and more expensive settings. But in spiritual matters, empty
dogma, ostentatious show, material magnificence, and gaudy spectacle are
completely without importance. Indeed, they tend to encourage external
appearances that serve only as facades that hide a vast emptiness and a
profound meaninglessness in the spirit of man. What really counts is the inner
man, the seriousness of his convictions, and his respect for, allegiance to,
and compliance with universal law. Ritual and dogma too often serve as a cloak
that is thrown over the inner poverty of inferior and evil men, but a simple
and honest respect for the powers of the Universe are the marks of a truly
devout man.
Top. [6] When there is a transition bringing with it
significant change, there is often a temptation to turn around, look back, and contemplate
the mistakes and evils of the past. But this is a dangerous distraction and can
led to unfortunate consequences. By contemplating the past, a man renews and
reinforces his attachment to the past and the power it has over him.
Bottom. [9] At the outset, the time is favorable for
beginning worthwhile projects, and these are supported by some important
people. Superior men are encouraged by this and gladly become part of the joint
effort. But it is important that a person not be swept along by the general
enthusiasm and lose his sense of direction. Only by persisting in what is right
can good fortune be assured.
2. [9] If those in a higher position favor the expansion and
a man has the ability to work diligently and carefully without the need of an
overseer to direct his every move, things will turn out well. Although he is
well aware of the nature of such times of growth and expansion and realizes
that after a period of rapid growth, a time of decline inevitably sets in, yet
he does not allow such sober thoughts to deter him. For the time being,
everything furthers his advancement, and he goes along with it without hesitation,
living fully in the present moment.
3. [6] In a time of expansion, a man enjoys the fruits of
his abilities. He is at the height of his powers, has been able to accomplish
great things, and he is viewed with honor and respect. But it is at just such a
time that he easily slips into being overconfident. He begins to act careless,
as if nothing could reduce his position. But this is a mistake, and will surely
lead to disaster. Nevertheless, all need not be lost. If he comes to his senses
in time and sees the extent of his carelessness, he can begin to act more
responsibly and rescue himself from an unhappy fate. The moment of weakness can
be rectified, and any damage caused by his temporary lapse can be corrected.
4. [6] The superior man identifies competent subordinates in
whom he confides, and whom he elevates to serve as trusted assistants. In
selecting such persons, he pays no heed to judgments based on superficial
distinctions and unrelated marks of status, but looks at their character, their
abilities, and their dedication to the work that needs to be done. He puts such
competent persons in positions of influence, and this move makes a substantial
contribution to the success of his efforts.
5. [6] A man in a high position needs assistants who are
able to help with the various parts of his activities. In selecting such
persons, he is careful to choose those who are highly capable, and those who
have the ability to work on their own without constant supervision. He then
allows them to function independently, knowing that he can depend upon them to
do what is right and to work efficiently for the success of the enterprise. He
places his trust in such highly competent assistants, knowing that the best,
most competent people are unwilling to work in situations where they do not
have the freedom to make decisions and to act in accordance with their own best
determinations, being responsible to higher authority for the results, but not
dependent on those in higher positions for how to proceed.
Top. [6] The superior man who has left the everyday world in
order to pursue the life of a wise sage may sometimes be persuaded to return
and lead others for a particular endeavor. This is highly beneficial to all
those with whom he works, for he is able to give them the benefits of wisdom
acquired over many years of experience and through long hours of study. Such a
return to the mundane world of man may seem like a lowering of his standing in
the eyes of some, but it does him no harm, and it contributes greatly to the
benefit of all concerned.
Bottom. [9] A man who is not involved in a complicated relationship
with others remains free of any obligations. His simple life-style allows him
to follow his own inclinations, but the simplicity of his activities means he
does not have much influence. If he is content with that, all is well and good.
He will accomplish things on a small scale without any problem and will enjoy
the satisfactions that come from minimal involvements in the world. If, on the
other hand, he is dissatisfied with such simplicity and has a gnawing desire to
improve his situation, his interest will be in advancing himself, not in
accomplishing something. Success in such ambitious undertakings means he will become
arrogant and materialistic.
2. [9] If a man chooses the quiet life of a man of wisdom
and remains apart from the turmoil of the world, content with his basic needs
and not desirous of material acclaim and rewards, he can travel through life
peacefully, untroubled by the earthly cares that beset those who seek greater
involvement. He can observe the ways of the world while being uninvolved
himself. His quiet life-style means he does not challenge the forces that throw
the lives of other men into disarray.
3. [6] If a man chooses to ignore his own limitations and
plunges ahead into worldly involvements regardless of the difficulties and his
lack of abilities, he will overextend himself and expose himself to great
dangers. Such recklessness is sure to bring on great difficulties and possibly
disaster. This kind of commitment is justified only when a person must rise in
defense of something that cannot be abandoned or neglected, or for someone to
whom he owes total loyalty.
4. [9] The situation may be dangerous, but the man is
convinced he has the power to prevail. Nevertheless, he hesitates out of
caution and a natural fear of the possible consequences. His lack of
confidence, however, is his biggest problem. If he has the capacity to prevail,
he will be successful in spite of the danger.
5. [9] A man recognizes that he must stand up and take
charge of the situation, regardless of how dangerous it is. But as long as he
remains fully aware of the danger and carefully calculates his actions based on
that awareness, he can succeed. Full awareness of the situation enables him to
judge exactly what he must do at each step of the way in order to insure that
everything works out well. Maintaining his attention on the danger will help
prevent him from falling into it.
Top. [9] In the end, how can a man know if his efforts will
be successful? It is to look at the consequences that followed from the actions
he has taken. If the effects that follow from actions taken are favorable, then
the results of the entire effort will be good. It is difficult for a man to
understand his own motivations in everything he does. Often he acts
instinctively, thinking that whatever he is doing is for the best. But if he
looks at the effects that his actions have, if he observes the responses that
follow from what he does, then he will know whether he is acting correctly and
whether in the end things will turn out successfully or not.
Bottom. [9] Sometimes a man comes up against what seems at
the time to be insurmountable limitations. When this happens, it is important
that the man recognize the situation and not try to go beyond what is possible.
By staying within the limits set on his forward movement, he is able to
consolidate his resources, sharpen his skills, and adequately plan his next
move. Then, when the time is ripe, he will be in a position to take whatever
further steps are indicated at that time. Careful planning is necessary for the
accomplishment of great enterprises.
2. [9] When a man prepares for action, there comes a time
when preparation is complete, obstacles are out of the way, and action is most
appropriate. Before that time, he is not really ready. After that time, he has
missed the opportunity. If worrying and fretting cause him to delay when the
time is ripe, the result will be failure.
3. [6] The man who seeks only the pleasures of frivolous
entertainment has no sense of limitations. He is looking for as much of those
things as he can find to fill as many hours in the day as he has. Such a path
is hardly the way to a fulfilling life, and invariably leads to a sense of
emptiness and futility. And just as invariably, he will seek to blame others or
circumstances for his fruitlessness. Only when he comes to realize that the
vacuity of his life is his own doing, that the path he pursues cannot possibly
provide a sense of fulfillment, will he be able to focus himself and his life
upon a more productive path.
4. [6] If a man's life is limited by artificial values that
do not naturally suit him, he will get nowhere because all his energies are
directed at maintaining the form while ignoring the substance. Limitations that
lead to success exist for a purpose: they contribute directly to the
achievement of the man's goals and purposes, and in fact are necessary to
accomplish the goals successfully. Other kinds of limitations that only help
make life more complicated and add nothing of themselves detract from the goal
and siphon off energy needed to achieve it.
5. [9] A man who seeks to establish limitations on others
cannot exempt himself. In fact, he will be much more successful if he presents
himself as a model for limited behavior. "Do as I say, not as I do"
has little influence on others and instead earns their contempt, not their
respect. But if the man adopts the limitations himself and can show how
successfully they work, his words and example will exert tremendous influence.
With such an approach, success will come to all who adopt the limitations.
Top. [6] All normal men aspire to some degree of personal
liberty. For a youth, a reasonable level of liberty is seen as an entitlement
as he approaches adulthood. If limitations are imposed that go too far in
suppressing what is seen as a reasonable degree of personal liberty, the
normal, healthy person will surely rebel. If he who imposes the limitations
thinks that he, as an authority figure, has the right to impose any limitations
he chooses, no matter how severe, then his actions can only lead to disaster,
because they violate human nature and force a reaction in their object. There
is one exception to this rule, however. There are occasions when the strictest
limitations are needed in order to heal the body or the mind. If a person has
lost control over his own behavior, if he is unable to do what he must or
unable to resist what he must not, then it is necessary for him to submit
himself to whatever limitations are required in order to rescue him from
misfortune. These may indeed by unpleasant and even unbearable; but the
difficulties that have engulfed him demand no less
Bottom. [9] A man who is a newcomer and a subordinate has an
excellent relationship with the head man, who has taken a liking to him and
will help him along. It is important, however, that this newcomer keep himself
quietly in the background, and not try to step out in front of the other
subordinates who are of higher rank than he. This might seem to place him at a
greater disadvantage than need be, and he might think it will prevent him from
accomplishing some of the tasks he is capable of. But by not pushing himself
forward and maintaining a friendly
relationship with subordinates of higher rank, he can still accomplish many
things without seeming a threat to the others, although he may not enjoy as
much status and recognition as he would like.
2. [9] A man feels he has fallen out of favor. Whereas he
had hopes of a productive relationship with the head man, the head man seems to
ignore him and leaves him to his own devices. The man feels abandoned and
shut-out, and this is a great disappointment to him. But he remains loyal and
does not depart. He accepts his situation and resolves to accomplish as much as
he can, regardless of the apparent neglect. Perhaps things will change for the
better in time, but he remains steady, even though there is no assurance that
his situation will improve.
3. [6] A man is in a position of little status, and yearns
for something better. He is unable to move ahead through the ordinary
competitive channels, however, and chooses to make headway in a way that is not
flattering to his reputation, even though it is not exactly illegal or wrong.
Thus, there is a trade-off: he gains some of the advantages that he so eagerly
seeks, but he is not thought highly of because of what he must do to win these gains.
His gains entail some losses. The choice is his. It is a real choice with real
consequences, however. If he stays where he is, it is unlikely he will never
move ahead.
4. [9] This man is in a position of little status, but he
decides that he would rather remain where he is than do something that is
somewhat less than honorable in order to make advancements. Opportunities seem
to pass him by, and true to his choice, he remains in a position of little
status. But eventually his better character is recognized, he is honored for
his faithfulness and integrity, and somewhat belatedly he receives a position
that is just as good as that which he might have obtained had he been less
circumspect. In the end, he acquires what he had hoped for and does so with his
reputation completely intact.
5. [6] A man of high status and good reputation takes a
position of lower rank than he previously held. Where others might see this as
an embarrassing or even humiliating step down, he accepts the position with
dignity and sees it only as an opportunity
to continue his work and to be of service to his fellow man, though with much
less pressure. He looks askance at all concerns about rank, class and pride,
and focuses instead on the task at hand. As a result, all goes well, the
relaxed situation suits him, and he has great success.
Top. [6] A man occupies a high position, but it has little
meaning for him. He performs his tasks perfunctorily, but his heart is not in
it. He is looked upon as a worthless drudge and a bureaucratic plodder. He
accomplishes little, he has no influence, and little self-respect. Nothing good
could come of him.
[6] It is no disgrace for an ordinary man not to understand
exactly what it is that gives the superior man the influence he has. This is
only made clear by intensive study and contemplation. But for a superior man to
be unaware of the elements of character that enable him to be a leader that
people look up to draws into question his qualifications for being a leader. In
order for him to fill a position of leadership, he should have a complete
understanding of the meaning of moral leadership and how what he says and what
he does influences others. He must see clearly how his life can be an
inspiration and a guide to those he leads.
2. [6] A man of ordinary abilities is not able fully to
comprehend how he affects others by the way he thinks, speaks and acts. In
doing such things, he merely reacts to how outward circumstances affect himself
and his own self-interests. He is not quite able to think in a broader context
and see how others might think and feel about what he does. He does not judge right
and wrong by how things impact upon groups of people, but only how things
impact upon himself. In addition, he does not understand what drives another's
actions and what another's motives might be. Here also, his concerns are all
centered around himself, and he does not grasp what are the needs and wants of
other men, especially if they differ from his own needs and wants. This is
sufficient for ordinary persons who need not think of anything beyond
themselves and their own immediate concerns. But this is woefully inadequate
for a man who is responsible for others, for negotiating with others, and for
making decisions that will affect the lives of others. Such a self-centered,
inadequate viewpoint can only lead to poor judgments and mediocre outcomes.
3. [6] Ironically enough, a man begins to understand others
by contemplating himself. Not, of course, by thinking only of himself and his
own needs and interests, but by gaining insight into himself and how he is led
by his own self-interest, often to the exclusion of considering the effects
that what he does has on others. When he begins to see in these broader terms,
he begins to understand how other men are often led by the same self-interests.
But he also can begin to understand how other men have certain real needs and
interests that his own self-concerns often ignore. With this knowledge, he
begins to acquire an enlarged vision of not only himself, but of his place in
the world of others. When he can do that, he can make decisions that encompass
the interests of larger groups of people. His mind extends beyond himself, and
he is able to think in more objective terms. He begins to under-stand that
self-knowledge is not really centered on "ME" but on the place that a
person occupies in the world as a whole. With this broader vision, he can see
how what he does affects others, and with that in mind, he can tell whether
some particular action leads to the progress or the setback of those he leads.
4. [6] If a man is of such a high inner development that he
understands those things that are conducive to the advancement and growth of
societies of men, such a man should be taken in and honored with a position of
great responsibility. He is able to judge those measures which are rightly
taken, as well as those measures which are not conducive to the general
welfare. He should be allowed the freedom necessary to act upon his wise
judgments, and should not be used merely for his technical skills and abilities
to promote policies formulated by others. His vision and influence are
invaluable, and nothing should be put in his way that might impede his
exercising command.
5. [9] A leader of men should subject himself to careful
self-examination, and in examining himself, he should not just make a value
judgment upon his own motives and acts, but he should look to the effects that
he has produced. The opinions and criticisms of himself by himself or by others
have little meaning up against the real results of the actions he has taken.
Have the results of his actions been good? Has he influenced others to do
things that must be judged good? Has mankind benefited by what he has done? Are
the live of people better for what he has contributed? If so, then he has every
right to feel satisfied with himself as a leader and benefactor of men, for it
is by the fruits of a man's life that he must be judged.
Top. [9] Whereas the leader of men looks to the results of
his actions, the sage considers whether his actions are free from evil. The
results of the life of the sage occur in the world of the invisible, and are
not readily discernible by men.
Bottom. [6] The root causes of stagnation and decay extend
back into the distant past. The habits that produce decline become
well-established over time. But it is the nature of decay that it is
unacceptable. Everyone recognizes it, even if only unconsciously they know that
something is wrong. Therefore, the decay is not so well-entrenched that it
cannot ever be corrected. But it must not be ignored. Only when one retains
clearly in mind the idea of how things should be can the correction be made.
2. [9] Decline that arises out of inadequacy should not be
condemned too severely. After all, a person should not be treated with contempt
for something over which they have little control, something they could hardly
help doing. The idea is not to execute judgment and make people feel guilty,
but to improve the situation. And that is best done through kindness,
encouragement, and every form of assistance that will enable those who have
allowed things to decline to make them better. They must be shown the way, and
helped to acquire the means to follow it.
3. [9] It often happens that, in pursuing the correction of
long-standing mediocrity, a man pushes too hard. This naturally causes some
unhappiness and even resistance. No one is perfect, not even the corrector of
imperfections. But no great harm is done. It is better sometimes to push too
hard than not hard enough. All will be forgiven when the situation is finally
made better.
4. [6] Permitting mediocrity that is long-standing to
continue cannot bode well. These things are difficult to correct, and it is
always easier to let things slide and to continue with the same inadequate ways
that have been used in the past. Everyone is used to the careless ways they
have always worked with, and changes will require a major overhaul. If
circumstances are such that increased responsibilities are bringing greater
demands, while intrenched inadequacies are beginning to reveal how really bad
things are, and then a person still is too weak or indifferent to change them,
things will only go from bad to worse. This is a prescription for disaster.
5. [6] If a person lacks the ability to correct
long-standing corruption, he should not just ignore the problem. Anything he
does will be better than leaving everything as it is. He should solicit as many
suggestions and as much help as he can find. Even if he cannot completely
correct the situation, any improvement that he can bring about will be
recognized and be to his credit.
Top. [9] Not every man need be a crusader or a reformer.
Even a superior man, who is fully capable of correcting the decline he sees all
about him and leading the way to reform, need not become involved if he chooses
not to. But this does not mean that he should feel free to take the easy way
out, sit back and criticize, and leave it to others to do the hard work of
reform. As a man of superior dedication, it is not his option to do nothing.
Rather, he should work on the refinement of his own character and aspire truly
to be a sage, together with whatever dedicated activities such a path may
require of him. This might well mean as much or more hard work than the job of
the reformer. And this, too, has benefits for mankind.
[9] Immediately after a significant transition takes place,
the momentum of change is still effective, and there is a tendency for it to be
carried too far. If change is overdone, it creates uncertainty and weakness, a
need for a pullback, and the introduction of confusion that could lead to chaos
and disaster. The wise man, therefore, exercises caution at this time when
everyone else is pushing ahead with elation and recklessness. He holds back,
and even though he may receive some slight injury from the pullback that
necessarily follows when a general movement goes too far, his caution prevents
the minor loss from becoming a major one.
2. [6] After a complete change to a new order of things, a
man feels that the new leadership is ignoring him, and that he lacks the
opportunities that are necessary for the advancement of what he seeks to
accomplish. Those in new positions of leadership may seem content with the
changes that the recent transition has brought, and care nothing for new
projects or developments. They are content to sit back and rest upon what they
have done. Everyone seems to have lost their sense of mission and their
interest in moving forward, and are now chiefly concerned with their own power,
position and reputation. This causes the man to consider some ostentatious way
of bringing his ideas to everyone's attention, but this would be a mistake. If
he becomes a part of the same struggle for power and position that engages
everyone else, all that he intends will be corrupted and will come to naught.
His wisest course is to guard his integrity, maintain his position, consolidate
his resources, refine his plans, and develop his skills in preparation for a
time when they can be profitably employed. After the present hollow scene has
played itself out, a desire for substance and for men with great ideas will
arise, and the man's day will arrive. If he stands firm for his principles and
for his solid vision, if his goals are really worthwhile, it is impossible that
they will lose their value. All he needs to do is wait patiently for the wheel
of Fate to turn, and he will be in a position to realize his goals.
3. [9] When a time of transition is complete and the new
order is well-established, a new and revitalized administration usually seeks
to expand its powers and enlarge its field of influence. It is filled with
energy, and to fail to employ that energy in some constructive way is to invite
stagnation and decline. This can mean a long and difficult struggle to move
into other territories and incorporate them into the expanding enterprise,
however. In order for this to succeed, it must be done correctly and in
accordance with what is right and just. It should not be parceled out to
parvenus who would not be considered worthy to hold a leading position at home.
To expand an operation, but to include inferior people as part of the
expansion, is a sure way to bring on disaster to the entire enterprise.
4. [6] When a transition is complete and a community is at
the height of its power, it is almost inevitable that some kind of scandal will
occur that points to the presence of evil and corruption. This will surely
invoke outrage from the people, but since the general tenor of the transition
is highly favorable, these problems are easily dispensed with, and the people
are mollified. Nevertheless, the wise man looks upon these outcroppings of
corruption as for causes, and takes corrective action.
5. [9] In the evolution of civilization, there occurs growth
and development in the ways men express their spiritual feelings. This, too, is
subject to transitional periods in which simple devotion is replaced by more
complex forms and more expensive settings. But in spiritual matters, empty
dogma, ostentatious show, material magnificence, and gaudy spectacle are
completely without importance. Indeed, they tend to encourage external
appearances that serve only as facades that hide a vast emptiness and a
profound meaninglessness in the spirit of man. What really counts is the inner
man, the seriousness of his convictions, and his respect for, allegiance to,
and compliance with universal law. Ritual and dogma too often serve as a cloak
that is thrown over the inner poverty of inferior and evil men, but a simple
and honest respect for the powers of the Universe are the marks of a truly
devout man.
Top. [6] When there is a transition bringing with it
significant change, there is often a temptation to turn around, look back, and contemplate
the mistakes and evils of the past. But this is a dangerous distraction and can
led to unfortunate consequences. By contemplating the past, a man renews and
reinforces his attachment to the past and the power it has over him.
Bottom. [6] The worthy assistant remains alert to the first
signs of deterioration in the endeavors of which he is a part. Since he does
not have responsibility for everything, he can stand back and observe problems
at their very beginning. Thus he is able to heed the early signs, take
precautions against further deterioration, and keep things going smoothly.
2. [6] The subordinate accommodates himself to the needs of
the creative leader. He supplies what the leader lacks, and thus makes himself
indispensable. He suggests improvements and effective alternatives that enable
the creative leader to achieve his goals. He has no motives or goals himself
outside of making the work of the creative leader more effective.
3. [6] The effective assistant does not seek recognition for
himself or his abilities, for he knows that to do so would undermine the joint
effort. He may well have many assets that others are unaware of, and which he
keeps concealed until needed. He avoids attracting attention to himself,
because that can arouse resentment as well as all kinds of opposing forces that
would defeat his usefulness. Even as an assistant, he may well occupy an
important position. Nevertheless, his chief attribute is restraint. His aim is
the success of the endeavors of which he is a part, not receiving credit for
what he does. This will often require a considerable amount of working behind
the scenes.
4. [6] In difficult times, one must act with great delicacy
and avoid drawing even the slightest attention to oneself. Since he times are
difficult, any degree of prominence is almost surely to be misunderstood or
misinterpreted. By remaining completely in the background, the subordinate
assistant can complete his work without anyone even knowing that he has been
actively involved.
5. [6] If the Devoted Assistant is forced into a prominent position,
even though he is not and cannot be an independent player, he must act with the
highest degree of discretion, sincerity and dignity. These characteristics
should reveal themselves, not in mannerisms or haughty attitudes, but
indirectly through the way he does things and brings about results.
Top. [6] The man in a subordinate
position who tries to assume the position of leadership brings down upon
himself every form of opposition from those stronger than he. He causes great
injury to himself, to the work he is supposedly a part of, and to all around
him. Such an effort to which he is unsuited by nature can only bring defeat and
disaster to everyone involved. All lines 6's. When the subordinate is combined
with the creative, the attributes of both are melded together, so that the man
remains steadfast and enduring while working in the pursuit of what is right.
Nothing great comes of this, but then nothing harmful happens either.
Bottom. [9] To join with another who seeks to achieve the
same goals through action and clear understanding can only serve to bring about
success. With such combined forces, success is assured. No matter how much time
they spend working together, they will both find the association stimulating and
highly productive.
2. [6] Inferior people are active, and their powerful
influence confuses the situation, so that a leader is unable to identify the
persons on whom he might depend to accomplish a great work. Under such
circumstances, a superior man is envied and disparaged by inferior people, and
anything he does is met with distrust and opposition. He is unable to
energetically pursue anything that might be productive. All such a man can do
is hold to the clarity of his inner vision and stand by what is true.
Eventually, the truth of the situation will be comprehended by the leader, and
he will realize that the superior man is the only one capable of doing the job.
3. [9] A man's effectiveness can be completely pushed to the
side by the prevalence of inferior men, who rise and make their presence known
before the leader. The situation is so dominated by inferior people, nothing
the man does will turn out successful, despite his best efforts. Although his
influence is completely crowded out, he cannot be blamed for this outcome. He
is prevented by the circumstances from being effective.
4. [9] The influence of dark forces begins to fade. Persons
of clear knowledge and action are able to come together, and a superior man
meets a leader who is like-minded with himself. The man's enthusiasm is matched
by the leader's wisdom, and the combination means that a favorable outcome is
then possible.
5. [6] When a leader is modest and has an open mind to the
counsel of wise and able assistants, a large number of good ideas can be made
available for consideration by everyone. Many excellent possibilities can be
presented and acted upon utilizing the combined intelligence of everyone
involved. This results in some great projects that lead to outstanding success,
with recognition and prosperity for all.
Top. [6] If a man becomes obsessed with his success, if he
is overcome with pride and arrogance because of his own achievements and so
dominates everyone that he closes his mind to their counsel, then he loses
touch with those he needs most, he loses sight of the whole point of his
endeavors, and all his efforts come to naught. Abundance
becomes an empty shell because the man got carried away with it all. He ends up
alone and with nothing
1. [9] At the beginning of an enterprise, the great leader
has not been tested and he is naturally free of mistakes. Yet he should realize
that there are many difficulties yet to come, and that he must not assume he
can expect great results just because things start off smoothly. He should pay
close attention to problems as they arise and not succumb to overconfidence.
2. [9] The leader must know how to make use of the human
resources at his disposal. By gathering to himself highly competent and willing
helpers, he is able to accomplish far more than he possibly could working
alone.
3. [9] A great leader who is modest devotes his talents to
great works that will benefit all. He realizes that for his work on this earth
to endure, he must give it away in this manner. The lesser man cannot do this,
because his efforts are all directed to his own enrichment. As a result, the
lesser man's works expire when he does.
4. [9] The great leader must associate with the wealthy and
powerful. It is important that he avoid being caught up in their world of
intrigues and accumulation. If he keeps his eyes on the work he wishes to
accomplish, he will not be distracted and make mistakes.
5. [6] The dedication of the great leader attracts many
followers. His honesty and commitment win them over. But the accolades of the
crowd can induce him to lower himself to coarse and ignoble behavior, and thus
undermine the great influence he has built up. Thus, a great leader maintains
dignity in order to pursue his worthy goals.
6. [9] At the height of his achievement, the great leader
who is modest receives honor and respect. His selfless devotion to the general
good is recognized, and Heaven itself seems to favor him, because all that he
does accords with the movement of Fate.
Jason Fried is the co-founder and President of 37signals, a privately-held Chicago-based company committed to building the best web-based tools possible with the least number of features necessary. 37signals' products include Basecamp, Highrise, Backpack, Campfire, Ta-da List, and Writeboard. 37signals also developed and open-sourced the Ruby on Rails programming framework. 37signals' products do less than the competition - intentionally. Jason believes there's real value and beauty in the basics. Elegance, respect for people's desire to simply get stuff done, and honest ease of use are the hallmarks of 37signals products.
1. [9] Opposition cannot be eliminated by force, because
that only causes the opposition to become indignant and entrenched. Given time,
a person of good intent will gradually come around and accept areas of small
agreement. Similarly, persons of evil intent, if endured, will gradually lose
interest and go away. However, neither will respond to force, except to become
more difficult.
2. [9] When opposition causes persons to divide
irreconcilably on an issue of mutual concern, no direct action can help. But a
casual meeting, devoid of intent, may lead to the beginning of an agreement if,
indeed, both parties have a need for one another.
3. [6] If first attempts at reconciling the opposition
result in humiliating rejection, one should not despair. Dedication and loyalty
in the face of it all will be rewarded, and the problems will eventually be
resolved.
4. [9] When a person is absolutely alone in the stand he has
taken, he will not be able to make any progress. But if he meets a kindred
spirit who will side with and support him, he should by all means join forces
with him. With such a helper on whom to test his ideas, he can make progress
and avoid making mistakes.
5. [6] Isolated by opposition, a man builds an impenetrable
wall around himself for protection. But anyone who will take the trouble to
break through that wall in order to pledge support is surely someone who can be
trusted. The man makes no mistakes when he agrees to join forces with such a
helper.
6. [9] A man becomes paranoid when he is beset by widespread
opposition. He misjudges even the good intentions of potential supporters and
is suspicious of all friendly acts. But this is error, and when he realizes it,
he can welcome the help and rejoice in the support his stand has attracted.
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