Chapter 75: Living by Demanding Little
“When taxes are too high, people go hungry.
When the government is too intrusive, people lose their spirit.
Act for the people’s benefit. Trust them; leave them alone.”
— Tao Te Ching, Verse 75
This verse may appear to focus on political leadership, but its wisdom applies universally—to how we lead, parent, govern ourselves, and live spiritually.
Lao Tzu highlights the harm caused by over-demanding systems—whether it’s a ruler demanding too much from citizens, or our own egos placing unrealistic expectations on life and others. The essence of Taoist leadership is humility, simplicity, and trust in the natural goodness of people and life itself.
Wayne Dyer interprets this verse as a call to live by demanding little—from others, from yourself, and from life.When you let go of control and excessive expectations, you make space for flow, freedom, and peace.
Key Teachings
- Over-controlling and over-demanding behaviour drains vitality.
- Letting go allows people—and life—to thrive naturally.
- True leadership is supportive, not suffocating.
- Trust, simplicity, and humility are more effective than force or pressure.
- Live in alignment with nature by asking less and giving more.
Actionable Steps: Living by Demanding Little
- Reduce Your Expectations
- Reflect on where you expect too much from others (e.g., partner, kids, employees).
- Ask yourself: “Is this expectation based on control or love?”
- Practice Self-Sufficiency
- Focus on providing for your own needs internally rather than placing demands on the outside world for happiness, validation, or success.
- Give Without Seeking Return
- Help someone today without expecting praise, recognition, or anything in return.
- Let giving be the reward.
- Simplify Your Living
- Reassess what you “need” vs. what you’ve been taught to want.
- Downsize a possession, task, or habit that clutters your inner peace.
- Trust Others to Find Their Way
- Avoid micromanaging, fixing, or constantly offering unsolicited advice.
- Say silently: “I trust your journey.”
Mantra for Living by Demanding Little
“I ask little. I trust more. I live lightly.”
Repeat this mantra when you feel the urge to control or expect too much. It anchors you in the spirit of the Tao—gentle, generous, and free.
