Tao Te Ching, Chapter 3

Translation

3. 1. Not to value and employ men of superior ability is the way to keep the people from rivalry among themselves; not to prize articles which are difficult to procure is the way to keep them from becoming thieves; not to show them what is likely to excite their desires is the way to keep their minds from disorder.

2. Therefore the sage, in the exercise of his government, empties their minds, fills their bellies, weakens their wills, and strengthens their bones.

3. He constantly (tries to) keep them without knowledge and without desire, and where there are those who have knowledge, to keep them from presuming to act (on it). When there is this abstinence from action, good order is universal.

Practical Reading

Excess leads to dysfunction. When we over-emphasize ambition, we lose clarity. When we over-indulge desires, we create suffering. The principle of restraint applies to modern consumption, work hours, and digital consumption. Simplicity preserves energy for what truly matters.