Inspirational Quotes
Do your work, then step back. The only path to serenity.
"Do your work, then step back. The only path to serenity."— Lao Tzu
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Meaning of this quote
Complete your responsibilities without remaining trapped in the need to control every outcome or receive approval. Stepping back after sincere effort creates space for rest and acceptance.
Key takeaway:
Do the work, then release your grip on the outcome.
Origin of the quote
Tao Te Ching, Chapter 9, in Stephen Mitchell's modern English version. The wording belongs to that rendering of a text traditionally attributed to Laozi.
Who actually said this?
VerifiedThe sentence appears in the cited Mitchell text. Credit the English version as well as the traditional author; this does not establish the historical identity of Laozi.
