“An ant on the move does more than a dozing ox.”
- 571 BC? – 470 BC?
- Born in China
- Philosopher
- Founder of Taoism, author of the Tao Te Ching and systematized Taoist thought
Quote
“An ant on the move does more than a dozing ox.”
Explanation
This quote from Laozi highlights the value of action and momentum, regardless of the scale of that action. Laozi uses the image of the ant, small and seemingly insignificant, as a symbol of consistent effort and diligence. The ant’s steady movement, no matter how small the steps, leads to progress. In contrast, the ox, large and powerful, may have great potential but achieves nothing while it is inactive or dozing. Laozi’s message is that even the smallest effort, when it is sustained and purposeful, can lead to greater outcomes than relying solely on potential or strength without action.
In modern terms, this quote speaks to the importance of consistent effort in personal and professional life. It suggests that while grand plans or great resources can be valuable, progress and success come from steady action, no matter how small or incremental. In business, for example, small, consistent improvements often lead to more sustainable success than one-time big efforts. The quote also highlights the significance of focus—moving forward, even in small ways, is more impactful than being idle or passive, no matter how capable you are.
This principle can also be applied to personal growth and habits. The person who makes small, positive changes every day—whether in health, learning, or creativity—will often achieve more in the long run than someone who relies on bursts of effort or has a lot of untapped potential but lacks action. Laozi’s wisdom teaches that momentum is key: even small steps, when taken consistently, can lead to profound transformation and results over time.
