The Three Powers that Helped Zeng Guofan Achieve Great Things

Author: Yin Xiujun
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-06-01
Features: Nailing the quote by Zeng Guofan (as cited by Wu Yong in "West Hunt in the Year of Gengzuo"): "When it comes to matters of the world, shouting and debating from the outside is always futile. One must plunge into the game and take responsibility to have a chance of success." The essence of governance lies in equally valuing the acquisition of talent and the management of affairs. Acquiring talent boils down to four things: extensive recruitment, prudent use, diligent teaching, and strict discipline. Managing affairs boils down to four aspects: systematic division, cohesive integration, thorough deliberation, and concise adherence. Mastering these eight methods will ensure no mistakes are made. — Zeng Guofan (April 13, 1862, from his diary)
From ancient emperors, kings, and generals, none succeeded without self-reliance and independence. Even the sages and virtuous had their own paths to self-reliance and strength, enabling them to stand firm and unshaken—Zeng Guofan to his younger brothers (April 28, 1862). The self-motivation to adapt to the times—elevating actions to the height of ideals; the unwavering execution—implementing ideals into the realm of faith; the leadership to expand the bigger picture—extending faith into the future.
I remember back then, Professor Kuang Yaming, former president of Nanjing University, said: "Confucius is unbreakable because his thoughts are filled with the essence of Chinese culture and possess the fundamental elements of humanity. Can we say the same for Zeng Guofan? His life was also shaped by Chinese culture, and he too embodies the fundamental elements of humanity. What are these qualities in Zeng Guofan? They are: the self-motivation to adapt to the times—elevating actions to the height of ideals; the unwavering execution—implementing ideals into the realm of faith; the leadership to expand the bigger picture—extending faith into the future.
In Zeng Guofan's writings and in many books about him, we can find these qualities everywhere. However, they are often labeled as mere strategies, turning Zeng Guofan into a figure who manipulates power in the officialdom and is difficult to read in interactions. In reality, this is all inaccurate! Zeng Guofan's ability to achieve great things and lead on a grand scale stems from the essence of Chinese culture and the fundamental elements of humanity within him! Simply put, these are the rational core of Zeng Guofan, the three driving forces behind his success.
Acquire one of these forces, and you will achieve great things!