# Lao Tzu Quotes | Inspiring Words & Wisdom

> Source: https://positivity.org/quotes/quotes-by-lao-tzu

![](https://positivity.org/media/2026/08/1773852253064-positivity---2026-03-18t221400-096-818567c0.webp)

**Quick Answer:** Lao Tzu (601 BC–-531) was ancient chinese philosopher and writer, reputed author of the tao te ching. Their philosophical insights on human nature remain profoundly relevant today.

## About Lao Tzu

Ancient Chinese philosopher and writer, reputed author of the Tao Te Ching. Founder of philosophical Taoism.

## 6 Quotes by Lao Tzu

> "A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step."

This quote reminds us that our inner world shapes our outer reality. Take a moment to reflect on how this applies to your current situation.

> "When I let go of what I am, I become what I might be."

Consider journaling about this quote. What does it mean to you personally? How can you embody this wisdom today?

> "Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished."

This timeless insight has guided millions of people through difficult times. Let it guide you too.

> "The best time to plant a tree was 20 years ago. The second best time is now."

This quote reminds us that our inner world shapes our outer reality. Take a moment to reflect on how this applies to your current situation.

> "Be content with what you have; rejoice in the way things are."

Consider journaling about this quote. What does it mean to you personally? How can you embody this wisdom today?

> "Knowing others is intelligence; knowing yourself is true wisdom."

This timeless insight has guided millions of people through difficult times. Let it guide you too.

## How to Apply Lao Tzu''s Wisdom

- Choose one quote that speaks to where you are right now in life

- Write it somewhere visible — your mirror, desk, or phone wallpaper

- Reflect on it daily for one week before moving to another

- Journal your thoughts — how does this wisdom apply to your challenges?

- Share it — teaching others deepens your own understanding

**Explore Related Topics** [Take the Positivity Quiz](https://positivity.org/tools/positivity-quiz)[More in Quotes](https://positivity.org/quotes)

Share this article 

[𝕏](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpositivity.org%2Fquotes%2Fquotes-by-lao-tzu&text=Lao%20Tzu%20Quotes%20%7C%20Inspiring%20Words%20%26%20Wisdom)
[f](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fpositivity.org%2Fquotes%2Fquotes-by-lao-tzu)
[in](https://www.linkedin.com/shareArticle?mini=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Fpositivity.org%2Fquotes%2Fquotes-by-lao-tzu&title=Lao%20Tzu%20Quotes%20%7C%20Inspiring%20Words%20%26%20Wisdom)
[P](https://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fpositivity.org%2Fquotes%2Fquotes-by-lao-tzu&description=Lao%20Tzu%20Quotes%20%7C%20Inspiring%20Words%20%26%20Wisdom)
[✉](https://positivity.org/mailto:?subject=Lao%20Tzu%20Quotes%20%7C%20Inspiring%20Words%20%26%20Wisdom&body=https%3A%2F%2Fpositivity.org%2Fquotes%2Fquotes-by-lao-tzu)

### Stay Inspired

Get a daily dose of positivity delivered to your inbox.

### Discover More on Positivity

[☀️What Is Positivity?](https://positivity.org/positivity)[✨Affirmations](https://positivity.org/affirmations)[💬Quotes](https://positivity.org/quotes)[🧘Meditations](https://positivity.org/meditations)[📖Psychology](https://positivity.org/psychology)[🛠️Tools](https://positivity.org/tools)[🌅Today's Inspiration](https://positivity.org/today)