Taoist philosophy, with its focus on balance, simplicity, and adaptability, is not only relevant to the workplace but also deeply connected to physical, mental, and emotional wellness. By aligning our actions with the natural rhythms of life and letting go of unnecessary resistance, we can cultivate greater harmony in all aspects of our lives.
Taoism, or Daoism, is a philosophy and spiritual tradition that originated in ancient China and is closely associated with the teachings of Lao Tzu, the author of the Tao Te Ching. At its core, Taoism emphasizes the concept of the Tao—the “way” or the natural flow of the universe.
Taoist philosophy offers a profound and practical framework for achieving wellness in a modern context. By embracing change, practicing wu wei, promoting balance, simplifying life, and adopting a long-term perspective, individuals and organizations can create harmony in their lives and work.
Taoist wellness lessons from business leaders
The landscape of business management in China is undergoing a significant transformation. While traditional Confucian principles emphasizing authority, regulation, and seniority have long guided Chinese entrepreneurs, a new approach rooted in Taoist philosophy is gaining traction.
Taoism offers a fresh perspective, advocating for leadership that supports natural growth and spontaneous transformation, rather than enforcing control. The stories of Chinese entrepreneurs like Gāo Défú of Dumpling Xi and Miranda Qu of Xiaohongshu reveal how Taoist-inspired practices promote both organizational and individual well-being, as explained by consultant Fang Ruan in a TEDx talk in 2019.
#1 Gāo Défú case study: Embracing flexibility
When Dumpling Xi, a popular food chain, faced disruption from online delivery services, founder Gāo Défú chose a Taoist-inspired approach. Instead of forcing a rigid solution, he embraced a flexible “two-hat model,” allowing regional managers to take on new responsibilities while continuing their existing roles.
Initially, the experiment caused fluctuations, but over time, the team adapted naturally, learning new skills and building a stronger organization. Gāo’s approach demonstrates the wellness benefits of wu wei—trusting in the process and allowing people to grow at their own pace, reducing stress and fostering creativity.
#2 Miranda Qu case study: Breaking hierarchies
At Xiaohongshu, an online community with millions of users, founder Miranda Qu tackled rigid hierarchies that stifled collaboration and creativity. By introducing a playful “Signature Program,” where employees adopted avatars to interact across departments, Qu created a more inclusive and innovative culture.
This initiative reflects Taoism’s emphasis on balance and harmony. By breaking down traditional barriers, Qu cultivated a workplace where employees felt supported, valued, and empowered to contribute their best.
Taoist wellness beyond the workplace
The influence of Taoist principles extends beyond business and into every aspect of life. The concept of living in harmony with the Tao encourages practices like mindfulness, yoga, and tai chi, which promote both mental and physical wellness.
Whether applied to personal habits, workplace cultures, or community initiatives, Taoism teaches us that wellness is not about striving or forcing but about flowing naturally with the rhythms of life. As Lao Tzu famously wrote:
A leader is best when people barely know he exists. When work is done, people say, ‘We did it ourselves.’
In the same way, true wellness emerges effortlessly when we align with the Tao—the way of balance, harmony, and flow.
Explore more by watching the TEDx presentation by Fang Ruan herebelow.
Fang Ruan is co-lead of the BCG Henderson Institute in China and a regional leader of the People and Organization practice in Asia-Pacific based in BCG’s Hong Kong office.
