DILIGENCE

There are those who feel that the concept of diligence does not fit the relaxed, non-action mind-set where you let everything flow naturally. Some of them are quite certain that any talk of diligent practice must be contrary to the Tao.

This is not the case. The Tao Te Ching states that when higher people hear of the Tao, they practice it diligently. “Higher people” in this context refers to those who have attained higher levels of wisdom, so it is quite clear that diligence has a prominent place in Tao teachings.

It may seem as if the sages are speaking against diligence when they talk about strife, but the two are not the same. Strife is the expenditure of straining effort for poor results. Diligence, on the other hand, is simply the discipline to progress in a purposeful direction with consistency.

In the journey of a thousand miles, strife would be running yourself ragged after only a few miles. Diligence would be taking one step after another, without stopping but also without the frantic rush. The body may be in motion, but the mind is perfectly relaxed as it enjoys the journey. This is the real meaning of diligence in the Tao.

The Tao Today

Look for opportunities to set up a plan where you can apply the Tao of diligence. Apply the Tao to them so you can make strides without strife and, more important, enjoy yourself throughout the entire process.

The Tao of Joy Every Day

~ Derek Lin