"Accomplished through steadfast action"

Author: Lü Xiqiang and Chen Suqing
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-05-01
Features:
■ The History of Diligent Action;
■ Modern Understanding of the Meaning of Diligent Action;
■ Diligent Action and Setting Life Goals;
■ Diligent Action and the Unity of Knowledge and Action;
■ A Healthy Mind Accompanies Me;
■ Mistakes and Adjustment Modes in Diligent Action.
The term "Diligent Action" was first mentioned in the Doctrine of the Mean, one of the "Four Books." It refers to Confucius' response to Duke Ai of Lu's question about governance, where he discussed many principles of ruling a state, including the concept of "Diligent Action." The relevant passage reads:
"Learn extensively, inquire thoroughly, reflect carefully, distinguish clearly, and act earnestly. If there is anything not learned, do not abandon it; if there is anything not understood through reflection, do not abandon it; if there is anything not acted upon earnestly, do not abandon it. If one person can achieve this, you can achieve it a hundred times over; if ten people can achieve it, you can achieve it a thousand times over. If you truly follow this path, even the foolish will become wise, and even the weak will become strong."