ancient wisdom, chinese history, cultural leadership, decision-making, eastern philosophy, historical figures, leadership lessons, leadership strategies, management wisdom, patience, self-improvement, stability, success principles, wisdom in leadership, zeng guofan

Wisdom in Leadership: The Strategies of Zeng Guofan

Zeng Guofan came from a farmer’s family, yet he was able to achieve the ranks of nobility and high office. As a mere scholar, he repeatedly achieved military success. He held great power throughout the country, yet he met a peaceful end. This success was rooted in his unique approach to dealing with matters focusing ...

Mikel Davis

A lit light bulb on a wooden surface surrounded by unlit bulbs.

Do You Know the 3 Ways to Be a Prosperous Family?

Zeng Guofan said: “A prosperous family consists of harmony, filial piety, diligence, and thrift.” Therefore a harmonious family prospers. Zeng Guofan (26 November 1811–12 March 1872) rose through the government ranks, his family prospered, and he held military power. Guofan was a notable strategist, a skilled administrator, and held himself to the values of nobility ...

Helen London

A prosperous family can be achieved through these 3 ways

The Critical Importance of Family Precepts

Most families in the Western world have a family crest, a coat of arms, or a family motto that serves as the philosophy, or family precepts, and is an inspirational call to excellence for each generation. The motto is usually written in Latin, such as Semper Fidelis — Always Faithful, or in French, such as ...

Helen London

Multi-generational festive family gathering.

The 6 Types of Regret and How Their Lessons Can Better Your Future

Life is difficult, and sometimes you have regrets, but you can always make a better future. There was a famous grand chancellor of China’s Song Dynasty named Kou Zhun, who left behind a brief but legendary article describing six types of regret. It is only 42 characters long but has had a great impact on ...

Emma Lu

Zeng Guofan.

The Art of Speaking

There is an ancient Chinese saying: “Sickness enters through the mouth; misfortune comes out of it.” The Chinese saying articulated the art of speaking — only speak meaningful words. Zeng Guofan was a Chinese statesman, military general, and Confucian scholar of the late Qing dynasty. He once said: “You should not act as you desire, ...

Helen London

Speaking to a group of people.