I first came across this term through a recording of a lecture by Alan Watts. Watts was a writer, speaker and self-styled “philosophical entertainer” who helped with the emerging hippie culture in the US with his book The Way of Zen (1957). You can read more about him here.

Watts talked about this Teo concept that beckons us to embrace the beauty of non-action or effortless action, called Wu wei. As an experiment, I took to embracing this concept in December, as this is usually the busiest time of the year and when the feeling of anxiousness and over-whelmed is prevalent.

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, the essence of Wu wei holds particular relevance in the tumultuous currents of our fast-paced, modern lives. I thought it would be fun to share this exploration journey with you and invite you to do your exploration, too.

Taoism, an ancient philosophy and spiritual tradition, teaches us to harmonize with the universe’s natural order. Tides rise and fall, acorn seeds become oak trees, and these are just a couple of examples of how things unfold naturally in nature. I even like the word ‘naturally,’ as it points back to the concept that there is a nature to things that happen without effort, Wu wei, a non-doing. Contrary to a literal interpretation of non-doing, Wuwei encourages us to flow with the rhythm of life, surrendering the need for excessive control and allowing events to unfold organically.

In a world characterized by relentless hustle and ceaseless striving, the wisdom of Wu wei invites us to pause and consider a different path—one that does not resist the natural flow but instead dances with it.

An example of this that I believe everyone has experienced at one point is a flow state or being in the zone where action and effort are seemingly interwoven and where the experience, upon reflection, seems to have happened effortlessly. The right things just got done at the right time with little to no thought. Some have described the experience as being guided; “state of perfect knowledge.” Many artists and writers have said that the art just appeared or the words flowed to the paper. Concepts like time have disappeared.

In the book by Gary Klein, “Sources of Power, ” Gary interviewed many first-responders on how they are able to make split-second decisions, and each could describe the feelings of being in the zone in reflection. Still, no one could explain how it happened, how they got into the zone. They just did. Flow states happen without effort.

Future blog posts will explore the profound implications of Wu wei as we step into the new year, shedding light on its timeless relevance in navigating the complexities of our modern existence.

What would this mean for your work, play, relationships, mental health and well-being?

Join me on a journey to understand how Wu wei can be a guiding light in finding equilibrium amid the chaos, bringing tranquillity to our minds and a sense of purpose to our endeavours.

Please share your initial thoughts on this subject.

Have you experienced Wu wei in your life? What was it like?

Until next time, notice where and when in your life Wu wei, effortless action shows up.

With kind regards,