Chapter 26
Stay Grounded to Stay Strong
26.1. Gravity is the root of lightness; stillness, the ruler of
movement.
2.Therefore a wise prince, marching the whole day, does not go far
from his baggage waggons. Although he may have brilliant prospects to
look at, he quietly remains (in his proper place), indifferent to
them. How should the lord of a myriad chariots carry himself lightly
before the kingdom? If he do act lightly, he has lost his root (of
gravity); if he proceed to active movement, he will lose his throne.
Critical Thinking Exercise
Map Your Supply Wagons
List the three most important foundations in your life—the things that give you stability and strength. For each one, write down one specific way you protect it and one way you might be neglecting it. Then identify one exciting opportunity you're currently considering and honestly assess whether pursuing it would strengthen or weaken these foundations.
Consider:
- •Your 'supply wagons' might include relationships, financial security, health, professional reputation, or personal routines
- •Sometimes protecting your foundation means saying no to good opportunities that aren't great opportunities
- •The goal isn't to never take risks, but to take them from a position of strength
Journaling Prompt
Write about a time when you abandoned something stable for something exciting. What did you learn from that experience, and how does it inform the choices you're making now?
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