Putting Chapter 33 into Practice

What does it mean to truly listen to this teaching from the Tao? It involves redirecting our efforts toward understanding and mastering ourselves.

More importantly, it requires us to cease our attempts to manipulate external circumstances to feel good internally.

For example:

• “If I can get him to like me, I’ll feel fulfilled.”
• “If I strategize my way to that promotion, I’ll have a better title and more money… then I’ll be happy.”
• “If I lose weight, I’ll finally be satisfied with myself.”

These approaches often lead to fleeting happiness. Once we attain these goals, we quickly find ourselves searching for another source of external validation. This cycle often continues throughout our lives.

The unfortunate reality is that many people are like miners searching for gold on the shores of Honolulu—there simply isn't any gold to be found there!

Lao Tzu understood this fundamental truth: the true riches of life are found within us.

This notion may seem lofty and abstract—“Master yourself. Know yourself.”

Instead of merely acknowledging this wisdom and moving on, let’s explore how you can actively integrate it into your daily life through a simple two-step process.

Step 1: Assess Your Life

Begin by conducting a comprehensive and objective evaluation of your life. What are your current pursuits? Most importantly, identify the ways you seek external validation for your happiness.

Do you find yourself in a relationship where your emotional state is heavily influenced by your partner?

Reflect on how you determine your self-worth. Is it based on your job title, your possessions, or your children’s achievements?

Perhaps you’re working tirelessly, earning a substantial income but feeling drained and lacking a fulfilling life outside of work. What drives those choices?

Examine the primary elements of your life and question the motivations behind them.

Step 2: Realign Based on Your Discoveries

If we accept that the true wealth lies within, our first priority is to cultivate our inner selves to access that wealth.

For many of us, our minds are filled with overwhelming distractions that pull our focus away from our inner world.

So, how can we quiet the noise within? Establishing a consistent meditation practice is a powerful way to reduce internal chatter, allowing us to engage in the vital work of self-discovery and self-mastery.

While working to quiet your mind, also seek ways to shift your focus from the external world to your internal landscape. Some changes may be significant, like considering a job transition if you find yourself working excessively long hours. However, it’s often beneficial to begin with smaller adjustments that won’t drastically disrupt your life.

For instance, if you spend two hours exercising for external validation, consider reducing it to one hour. Use that extra time for meditation, yoga, or leisurely walks in nature.

The key is to realign your life to prioritize your inner journey.

The Final Thought

Willie Sutton, a notorious bank robber, famously replied to a reporter’s question about why he robbed banks with, “Because that’s where the money is.”

In the same vein, Lao Tzu teaches us that we should focus on our inner selves because that is where the true beauty and richness of life resides.

Thank you for taking the time to read this.

For a simple, free meditation program, visit davidgerken.net.