I am currently reading the Tao Te Ching and found this passage that seemed simple and profound. The beauty of the Tao Te Ching is that its wisdom evolves as you evolve, and the message you can draw from it will change based on your life experience and the stage you are currently in.

Here are 6 powerful lessons I learned:

In housing, live close to the ground.

Our society places a lot of importance on living on higher floors, but what are the real benefits? Privacy, isolation, exclusivity? Are these the things you really want out of life? No man is an island and I don’t think anyone wants a life without connection. Also, on a more practical note, if something happens to the building, those living on the upper floors are less likely to survive.

In thought, keep the simple.

It’s easy to outsource our thinking to Google these days. Almost any problem has an answer online. I take this quote to mean, use your own brain and think about things about work, relationships, and other important aspects of your life.

In conflict, be fair and generous.

This is Lao Tzu’s way of saying win-win. If he ever wants to defuse the conflict, remember to make sure both parties get what they want. If you crush the other party, be ready for their retaliation one day. So, to repeat: Be fair and generous. It will work every time.

In governing, do not try to control.

When you are given power, remember that it is not about control but about leadership to achieve the common mission. Give your subordinates (employees, children, etc) autonomy but at the same time the necessary resources for their success. History has shown that control is not a good long-term strategy. Lead empowering.

At work, do what you like.

Work included for a good part of your life. Why spend that time doing something you don’t enjoy? Find the intersection between your strengths, your interests, and your career. This way you can spend time developing what you do best and get people to pay you to do it for them. Those who achieve great things always follow their passion.

In family life, you must be fully present.

How many times we “spend” time with our loved ones and find our minds elsewhere. We are thinking about the future things we have to do or the ways we have been hurt in the past. If you want a great relationship with your family, be fully present with them and enjoy the moment. They will thank you.

There you go. Six simple lessons that I find applicable to my daily life, and I hope you have found them applicable to yours as well.