Many people try to achieve success through complicated systems of rules that often work only for “superhumans” and ignore the abilities of ordinary people. In the pursuit of perfection, we tend to forget the simple truths that form the foundation of a balanced life — truths that are accessible to everyone.
One of the thinkers who expressed such simple and clear principles was the ancient Chinese philosopher Han Xiangzi. Today, his ideas are often reinterpreted through the lens of modern psychology, offering practical ways to achieve inner peace and harmony with the world around us. AdmiGram.com shares them below.
Modern “Golden Rules of Life” for Everyone
© Antonino Visalli / Unsplash
The Rule of Time
Never spend your time and energy on people who are indifferent to you — or worse, those who do not love you. There are many people in this world with whom you can live your life with joy.
The Rule of Two
Any joint endeavor may bring double frustration if you succeed — because you might realize you could have done it alone. And double disappointment if you fail — because you allowed yourself to be drawn into it.
The Rule of Friendship
If we cannot sincerely rejoice in our friends’ success, then what connects us to them is not truly friendship.
The Rule of the Problem
When you seem to have problems with everyone, the main problem is usually yourself.
The Traveler’s Rule
If you want to go far, go together. If you want to go fast, go alone.
The Rule of Strength
Do not use force where it is unnecessary. After all, you wouldn’t punch yourself in the forehead just to kill a mosquito sitting on it.
The Rule of Perspective
Always try to put yourself in someone else’s place before telling them where their place is.
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The Rule of Reciprocity
Do not judge others — pay attention to yourself instead. Those who throw dirt at others rarely have clean hands or a clear mind.
The Rule of Pain
A person who carries resentment often ends up hurting others.
The Rule of Height
We rise above others the moment we start treating them better than they treat us.
The Rule of Giving
When we help others, we are helping ourselves first. It makes us better people regardless of whether help is returned.
The Rule of Acceptance
Everyone we meet in life teaches us something. It doesn’t matter whether the experience is bitter or positive — what matters is learning to accept it.
The Rule of Attraction
We are naturally drawn to people who show genuine interest in us.
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The Rule of Faith
Sincere belief in someone’s best qualities often inspires them to live up to those qualities.
The Rule of Relationships
Human relationships are always more important than any situation that may arise.
The Rule of Freedom
When you are sincere and free in your attitude toward yourself, it helps others feel comfortable and free around you.
The Rule of Rescue
When preparing for something difficult or dangerous, try to protect and support the people you care about.
The Rule of Growth
All relationships must be nurtured — from a tiny seed to a full harvest.
The Rule of Beauty
All else being equal, people are drawn to those they like. And even when things are not equal — they still are.
The Rule of Mistakes
Every person has the right to make mistakes. We are all living life for the first time.
image on top: Madison Oren / Unsplash
