The Dao De Jing, written by the ancient Chinese philosopher Laozi, is one of the most influential texts in the history of philosophy. Deeply rooted in Daoist thought, it offers timeless wisdom about harmony, balance, and the natural flow of life. Among its many profound teachings, the concept of "overcoming hardness with softness" stands out as a powerful principle, not only in personal life but also in the realm of modern business. Laozi famously wrote, "Nothing in the world is softer or weaker than water, yet nothing is better at overcoming the hard and strong." This simple yet profound statement highlights the paradoxical truth that what appears soft and weak can ultimately prevail over what is rigid and unyielding. The adaptability and persistence of water, for example, allow it to carve through rocks and reshape landscapes. In the competitive and ever-changing world of business, this philosophy offers profound insights into how companies can thrive by embracing flexibility, empathy, and cooperation.

The wisdom of softness is perhaps most evident in the evolution of leadership styles. Traditional business practices often placed a premium on authority and rigid control, with the belief that strong hierarchies and tough decision-making were the hallmarks of successful leadership. However, as business cultures have evolved, there has been a growing emphasis on softer, more people-centered approaches. Effective leaders today understand that listening to their employees and building trust through empathy and understanding are far more impactful than ruling with an iron fist. This softer style of management fosters creativity, enhances team cohesion, and builds a culture of trust. Companies like Google and Meta exemplify this approach by creating open, flexible work environments where employees are empowered to take initiative and think outside the box, leading to groundbreaking innovations.

The principle of "overcoming hardness with softness" is equally relevant in the realm of negotiations. Business negotiations are often viewed as battles of wills, where one party must "win" at the expense of the other. However, this zero-sum mentality can lead to strained relationships and missed opportunities for long-term partnerships. A negotiator who embraces the philosophy of softness seeks to understand the needs and priorities of the other party, working collaboratively to find solutions that benefit both sides. For example, companies that prioritize building long-term relationships with suppliers—rather than simply driving down costs—create stability and mutual trust in their supply chains. This cooperative approach ensures that both parties thrive, rather than one succeeding at the expense of the other.

Interestingly, the concept of win-win outcomes is not confined to business. It can also be seen in unexpected arenas such as sports. The second author of this piece, who practices Chinese kickboxing as his pastime, observes that even in the heat of competition, the principles of mutual respect and harmony prevail. While Chinese kickboxing is a combat sport that demands physical toughness and strategic thinking, it also fosters companionship among competitors. It is common to see players hug after a match, acknowledging each other's efforts and celebrating mutual growth. In this way, even in a setting that appears to be about winning and losing, a win-win spirit can emerge, emphasizing shared respect over rivalry.

In a world of constant market uncertainty, the ability to adapt and innovate has become the foundation of sustained business success. Soft innovation—marked by flexibility, responsiveness, and a willingness to embrace change—empowers companies to navigate rapidly shifting conditions while maintaining their competitive edge. Apple Inc., the visionary behind the iPhone, exemplifies this approach through its mastery of continuous product iteration. By consistently refining its offerings to align with ever-evolving consumer preferences, Apple has set a benchmark for staying relevant in dynamic markets. Likewise, startups often leverage agile development models, enabling them to swiftly launch new products and fine-tune them based on real-time user feedback. This iterative and adaptive strategy not only helps businesses tackle challenges head-on but also transforms potential obstacles into valuable opportunities for growth and innovation.

Corporate culture is another area where the philosophy of softness can have a transformative impact. A culture, that values inclusivity and diversity, often attracts and retains top talent. It also fosters collaboration and innovation. Companies like Microsoft and Tesla have embraced diversity policies that respect and celebrate different perspectives, creating an environment where creativity and teamwork flourish. Flexible work arrangements, such as remote work and adjustable schedules, are also becoming increasingly popular. These softer approaches to workplace management not only boost employee satisfaction but also enhance productivity, demonstrating the practical benefits of a more flexible and empathetic corporate culture.

Softness is also essential in building strong emotional connections with consumers. Modern brands are more than just symbols of products—they are bridges that connect with their audiences on a deeply personal level. By adopting softer branding strategies, companies can forge lasting relationships with their customers. Starbucks, for example, has cultivated a loyal customer base by focusing on personalized service and creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, storytelling has become a powerful tool for brands to connect emotionally with consumers. Many companies use narratives about their founders or the values behind their products to create resonance and deepen customer loyalty.

While the philosophy of softness emphasizes flexibility and empathy, it does not suggest abandoning firmness altogether. Certain principles, such as maintaining rigorous quality standards or upholding core values, require a degree of rigidity. The true art of applying "overcoming hardness with softness" lies in balancing the two—knowing when to remain firm and when to adapt or yield. Businesses that master this balance are better equipped to navigate the complexities of the modern marketplace.

At the heart of the philosophy of softness is the idea of seeking harmony and mutual benefit. In business, this translates to the importance of fostering win-win relationships. Whether in negotiations, partnerships, or customer interactions, the focus should always be on creating value for all parties involved. A win-win approach not only builds trust and goodwill but also lays the foundation for sustainable success. Companies that prioritize long-term collaboration over short-term gains find themselves better positioned to thrive in a world where cooperation, adaptability, and empathy are the keys to enduring growth.

The Dao De Jing teaches us that softness is not weakness; it is a form of strength that lies in adaptability, resilience, and the ability to work harmoniously with others. By embracing these principles, businesses can rise above the rigid confines of outdated practices, forging paths to innovation, growth, and shared success. Whether in the boardroom or the Chinese kickboxing ring, the wisdom of "overcoming hardness with softness" reminds us that true strength lies in finding ways for everyone to succeed together.

By Dr. Bankee Kwan

Member of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and the Permanent Honorary President and Past President of Federation of Hong Kong-Shanghai Associations

Dr. Philip Wong

Member of Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (MRICS)

Fellow of the Chartered Institution of Highways and Transportation (FCIHT)

The views do not necessarily reflect those of Orange News.

Photo: AFP