The ancient Chinese philosopher Laozi is credited with founding Taoism, a spiritual tradition that prioritizes harmony with nature, a life of humility and simplicity, and making peace with allowing things to happen as they may. This quote — suggesting that good leadership is not about control, but rather quiet, unassuming stewardship — comes from his work “Tao Te Ching,” a foundational Taoist text dated sometime between the third and sixth centuries BCE. Laozi believed the best leaders empower others to act and thrive on their own terms while barely drawing attention to themselves at all. This stands in sharp contrast to the spectacle many historical leaders have made of themselves, but according to Laozi, the strongest influence doesn’t come from being loud; it comes from remaining steady, selfless, and aware of the bigger picture.

Legendary jazz pianist Thelonious Monk relayed this message, along with other words of wisdom, to saxophonist Steve Lacy when the two played together in 1960. While his list of guidelines, which Lacy transcribed in a notebook titled "T. Monk’s Advice," was initially directed at fellow musicians, messages like these offer universal insight. Monk advocates for authenticity, personal integrity, and belief in oneself as our highest, most defining virtues. A singular force in music and beyond, he led by example on this front. In a world of constant pressure to give into conventions and expectations, he stressed that the greatest gift we have to give is ourselves.