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Do Nothing and Do Everything: An Illustrated New Taoism
The power of the Tao has accompanied the author through his journey as pupil during the Chinese Cultural Revolution to professor at an American liberal arts college. In Do Nothing and Do Everything he applies the ideas of Wu Wei (do nothing) and Wu Bu Wei (do everything) to modern life. Do Nothing and Do Everything is supplemented by observations of American and Chinese life. Rich and humorous illustrations convey the subtle ideas that go beyond language and are re-created in the same style as the ones the author draws impromptu on the blackboard in his classes. This introduction to ancient Taoism is conveyed in a lighthearted and humorous manner. This illustrated new Taoism will answer the widespread thirst for an alternative approach to life, and a longing for health, tranquility, and spiritual liberation.
240 pages, Hardcover
First published September 1, 2010
47 people are currently reading
254 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
November 1, 2021
لا يمكننا أن نختار متى نموت أو كيف نموت. ومع ذلك يمكننا أن نقرر متى نعيش. الوقت الآن. اغتنم اليوم ولا تثق في الغد. لا يبدأ الخلود بعد الموت، بل يمتد إلى كل الأوقات في حياتنا. نحن فيه الآن. يمكن أن نحصل عليه إذا استسلمنا - تخلينا عن قدرتنا المتخيلة للسيطرة على الحياة
Qiguang Zhao
Qiguang Zhao
October 25, 2011
At first glance, the Taoist concepts of Wu Wei (do nothing) and Wu Bu Wei (do everything) seem mutually exclusive. In this book, Mr. Zhao patiently and with gentle humor shows how Wu Wei and Wu Bu Wei are complementary, not contradictory; two equally necessary approaches, like the eastern symbol of the Yin and Yang.
Mr. Zhao clarifies that Wu Wei “is to follow the course of nature. It is confidence in the universe.” Wu Wei “is not refusing to do anything, it is refusing to do insignificant things. Wu Wei is efficiency...giving up secondary matters and aiming for the key matters.” On the other hand, Wu Bu Wei “is the creativity to build a good habit.” It is “leaving nothing undone.” Taoists strive to settle between the two, finding the right balance for the present moment.
One of the recurring themes of Mr. Zhao's exploration of Taoism is constant learning, but in the right way and with proper perspective. “In the present world,” he states, “we drown in information and starve for knowledge, We drown in expertise and starve for wisdom.” Anyone who has ever performed a Google search can attest to that! He encourages his readers to “be patient towards all that is unanswered in our heart, and to try to love the questions themselves.” I especially appreciated his injunction to “recognize your ignorance and know your limits” as a way to maintain humility and to remain open to learning more. He also cautions that “when we only follow what we know, and forget to follow what we feel, we can easily be lead down the wrong path.”
Taoism seems to present a consciously relaxed approach to life. For example, Mr Zhao asserts that “everything will resolve itself sooner or later. This is the way of the Tao. Walk through life without fear for the future or regret for the past.” It also urges kindness: “We should treat ourselves with the same forgiving compassion as we give others. Nothing in the world is without flaws, so be tender and kind to others and yourself when you or others stumble.” What a vital reminder for everyone, whether Buddhist, Taoist, Christian or any other faith!
For more book reviews, come visit my blog, Build Enough Bookshelves.
Mr. Zhao clarifies that Wu Wei “is to follow the course of nature. It is confidence in the universe.” Wu Wei “is not refusing to do anything, it is refusing to do insignificant things. Wu Wei is efficiency...giving up secondary matters and aiming for the key matters.” On the other hand, Wu Bu Wei “is the creativity to build a good habit.” It is “leaving nothing undone.” Taoists strive to settle between the two, finding the right balance for the present moment.
One of the recurring themes of Mr. Zhao's exploration of Taoism is constant learning, but in the right way and with proper perspective. “In the present world,” he states, “we drown in information and starve for knowledge, We drown in expertise and starve for wisdom.” Anyone who has ever performed a Google search can attest to that! He encourages his readers to “be patient towards all that is unanswered in our heart, and to try to love the questions themselves.” I especially appreciated his injunction to “recognize your ignorance and know your limits” as a way to maintain humility and to remain open to learning more. He also cautions that “when we only follow what we know, and forget to follow what we feel, we can easily be lead down the wrong path.”
Taoism seems to present a consciously relaxed approach to life. For example, Mr Zhao asserts that “everything will resolve itself sooner or later. This is the way of the Tao. Walk through life without fear for the future or regret for the past.” It also urges kindness: “We should treat ourselves with the same forgiving compassion as we give others. Nothing in the world is without flaws, so be tender and kind to others and yourself when you or others stumble.” What a vital reminder for everyone, whether Buddhist, Taoist, Christian or any other faith!
For more book reviews, come visit my blog, Build Enough Bookshelves.
August 9, 2010
Explains Taoism in a very pragmatic fashion, which is unusual in the world of metaphor-laden Toaist texts. It explains in concrete words how "doing nothing" applies to breathing, eating, sleeping, work, fame, love, etc. Actually, it's kind of helpful to get the basics in this form even though it's not the first Taoist book I've read.
December 31, 2010
This book explains the meaning of the philosophy of Tao by delving into the essence of Wu Wei (do nothing) and Wu Bu Wei (do everything.)
These two concepts should never be separated. Non-doing is NOT passive but rather a swimming with the current in the process of doing, instead of taking the road north in order to go to a southern destination. It is also the ideal of letting nature be a guide rather than a stumbling block of interference. Doing within the nature of something produces less stress and allows the process to become an achievement of non-doing. The goal is not the true prize. In reality the process is the actual achievement. The process of getting to the goal is where we learn and experience life.
"The most dangerous thing is not that you cannot grab the sword. It is that once you have it, you either break it, find that you do not like it, or use it for destruction. The moment a goal is achieved is the most dangerous time, because you may waste or even abuse the achievement you have worked for years to achieve."
We live our lives according to the goals we have set. Once the goal is in sight, before it is achieved, a new goal is seen as the ultimate achievement. If we follow a course that is in tune with nature, the path, even with all its obstacles, will be a relatively easy one. If we choose a path that disallows the natural flow of life we find ourselves swimming against a very strong opponent rather than enjoying the ride of the current.
This is only one example of the philosophy contained within these pages. I found much of the writings to be enlightening and helpful. Stress is an everyday occurrence of life and the sooner we accept how cause and effect enters into the picture it's easier to let go of things we have no control over and ride the current.
These two concepts should never be separated. Non-doing is NOT passive but rather a swimming with the current in the process of doing, instead of taking the road north in order to go to a southern destination. It is also the ideal of letting nature be a guide rather than a stumbling block of interference. Doing within the nature of something produces less stress and allows the process to become an achievement of non-doing. The goal is not the true prize. In reality the process is the actual achievement. The process of getting to the goal is where we learn and experience life.
"The most dangerous thing is not that you cannot grab the sword. It is that once you have it, you either break it, find that you do not like it, or use it for destruction. The moment a goal is achieved is the most dangerous time, because you may waste or even abuse the achievement you have worked for years to achieve."
We live our lives according to the goals we have set. Once the goal is in sight, before it is achieved, a new goal is seen as the ultimate achievement. If we follow a course that is in tune with nature, the path, even with all its obstacles, will be a relatively easy one. If we choose a path that disallows the natural flow of life we find ourselves swimming against a very strong opponent rather than enjoying the ride of the current.
This is only one example of the philosophy contained within these pages. I found much of the writings to be enlightening and helpful. Stress is an everyday occurrence of life and the sooner we accept how cause and effect enters into the picture it's easier to let go of things we have no control over and ride the current.
March 7, 2011
Written by Q. Zhao - Chinese-American, this book is about the Taoist concept and theory that things and phenomena happen in a polemic space, employing opposites and dichotomy as ways of thinking around ones relation to everything. On/off, flow/block, accetance/resistance, small/large etc. He speaks in a straight forward, simple way on numerous topics close to heart; love, aging, sex etc. and always comes back to the basic premise that there is a time to do, and there is a time to non-do (Wu wei). A disarming, inspiring, light/heavy read.
December 29, 2025
The very best explanation and how to apply the art of Wu Wei, which I've always wanted to understand and apply and now I finally am able.
Also one of the best Tao books I've ever read. This one is a keeper to refer to again and again over the years.
Can't rate this one high enough.
Also one of the best Tao books I've ever read. This one is a keeper to refer to again and again over the years.
Can't rate this one high enough.
May 11, 2020
I am personally very connected to taoist philosophy. I think the philosophy is one we could all adopt in today's crazy world and be happier for it. Zhao explains many aspects of taoism in a very tangible and relatable way, which is hard to do with such an abstract concept. I recommend this book to anyone starting to learn about taoism or trying to determine how taoism can fit into their daily life.
November 7, 2020
The books gives great practical advise on how to incorporate taostic wisdom into ones daily life and live by taoistic principles. I would recommand it to everyone as a start to taoism, since it explains the basic principles in easy language and adds possible practical usage to make them more understandable.
October 7, 2021
This book was everything that I was looking for: a pragmatic introduction to Taoism that focuses on the philosophy and not as much of the spirituality. I like how the text was arranged by topic and explained how the Tao can apply to each aspect of our lives.
February 3, 2019
Universal principles, at the heart of Daoism, explained in a very clear and comprehensible manner
May 14, 2021
This was a very interesting and thought provoking book. I enjoyed the first half a lot. I love when a book makes you shift perspectives and this book definitely did that for me.
September 1, 2023
Taoist wisdom for the modern world in plain English. Great reading for the beginner and the adept in Taoist studies.
February 16, 2025
Practical and pleasant
August 23, 2014
A combination of lesson illustrations drawn by the author and text- this book explains the many ways one can practice the Daoist concept of wu wei or doing nothing ; yet, doing everything. The author is a scholar and professor of Eastern philosophy, but his writing is very accessible. A treasure in Eastern Philosophical studies.
June 15, 2015
Outstanding explanation of Taoism
Qiguang Zhao offers a clearly written explanation of Taoism. Readers who have been perplexed by Lao Tzu will have their confusion clarified. Zhao has taught Taoism classes at the collegiate level. This experience enables him to teach the reader what doing nothing while doing everything is all about.
Qiguang Zhao offers a clearly written explanation of Taoism. Readers who have been perplexed by Lao Tzu will have their confusion clarified. Zhao has taught Taoism classes at the collegiate level. This experience enables him to teach the reader what doing nothing while doing everything is all about.
July 10, 2014
This is a nice, simplified introduction to Taoism and how Tao can be applied to everyday life. Recommended for anyone wanting an insight into Taoist belief.
December 15, 2015
Very enjoyable read.
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews