Tao Te Ching
Tao Te Ching, Chapter 66
Chapter 66 of Tao Te Ching translated by James Legge (1893)
Translation
66. 1. That whereby the rivers and seas are able to receive the homage and tribute of all the valley streams, is their skill in being lower than they;--it is thus that they are the kings of them all. So it is that the sage (ruler), wishing to be above men, puts himself by his words below them, and, wishing to be before them, places his person behind them.
2. In this way though he has his place above them, men do not feel his weight, nor though he has his place before them, do they feel it an injury to them.
3. Therefore all in the world delight to exalt him and do not weary of him. Because he does not strive, no one finds it possible to strive with him.
Practical Reading
The river and sea become kings of all streams by staying below them. In leadership, position comes from serving, not demanding. What serves your team rather than yourself?