"He who conquers others is strong; He who conquers himself is mighty"

In this quote, Lao Tzu distinguishes between two kinds of strength: the strength that comes from conquering others and the strength that comes from conquering oneself. Dominating others might include using force, adjustment, or browbeating to attain one's goals. However, Lao Tzu argues that true strength depends on mastering oneself, especially one's emotions and desires. This needs self-discipline, self-awareness, and self-control-- qualities that are often undervalued in a world that celebrates external achievements. By dominating oneself, one ends up being mighty, gaining a much deeper sense of inner peace and fulfillment that can not be found through dominance of others.