Balance is key in finding harmony in life from "summary" of Trying Not to Try by Edward Slingerland
The ancient Chinese philosopher Zhuangzi tells a story about a butcher named Ding. Ding was so skilled at his craft that his knife never needed sharpening - it simply glided through the meat with ease. When asked about his secret, Ding explained that he had found a way to achieve perfect balance in his work. He didn't force the blade through the meat, but instead let it find its own way. In doing so, Ding was able to effortlessly achieve his goal without unnecessary effort or struggle. This idea of balance and harmony is a central theme in Chinese philosophy, particularly in the concept of wu-wei. Wu-wei is often translated as "effortless action" or "non-doing," but it is more than simply doing nothing. It is about finding the right balance between action and inaction, between trying too hard and not trying at all. In our modern Western society, we are often taught that success comes from hard work and determination. We push ourselves to achieve our goals, often at the expense of our own well-being. But the ancient Chinese philosophers would argue that this approach is ultimately self-defeating. By striving too hard, we disrupt the natural flow of things and create unnecessary tension and struggle. Instead, they suggest that we should strive to find harmony and balance in all aspects of our lives. This means knowing when to act and when to let things unfold on their own. It means being in tune with the rhythms of nature and the world around us, rather than constantly fighting against them. Finding this balance is not always easy. It requires a deep understanding of ourselves and our place in the world. It requires letting go of our ego and our need to control everything. It requires a willingness to surrender to the flow of life, trusting that things will work out in their own time. But when we are able to achieve this balance, the rewards are great. We find ourselves in a state of flow, where everything seems to fall into place effortlessly. We experience a sense of peace and contentment that comes from being in harmony with the world around us. So, the next time you find yourself struggling to achieve your goals, take a step back and consider whether you are trying too hard. Maybe the key to success lies not in more effort, but in finding the right balance between action and inaction, between doing and non-doing. Trust in the wisdom of the ancient Chinese philosophers and let go of your need to control everything. Embrace the concept of
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