Human relationships are fickle and the road of life is full of ups and downs.
When you meet an impasse, you should understand how to retire one step. When you come to an open road, you should know how to make way for others.
人情反覆，世路崎岖。行不去处，须知退一步之法；行得去处，务加让三分之功。
Notes
Shifting Feelings, Rugged Path: Accepting Reality’s Nature
This premise acknowledges life’s inherent complexity:
- “Human feelings shift” or ” fickle relationships” affirms human fluidity — interests evolve, perspectives differ, emotions fluctuate.
- “The path is rugged” reflects life’s objective challenges — obstacles are inevitable; smooth sailing is rare.
This mindset fosters resilience: neither resenting change nor despairing at hardship, but meeting flux with poise.
Step Back When Blocked: The Wisdom of Flexibility in Crisis
“Stepping back” may mean:
- Spatial concession (yielding position);
- Tactical shift (changing approach);
- Psychological release (releasing rigidity).
This “retreat” is not surrender but strategic flexibility — like water flowing around rocks to reach the sea. Forceful resistance turns obstacles into dead ends.
Concede Ground When Advancing: Preserving Gains in Success
“Conceding ground” or “make way for others” when unimpeded is preventive wisdom:
- Dominance without humility invites envy;
- Success without restraint breeds arrogance;
- Harmony without generosity erodes trust.
This “concession” is not weakness but active restraint — safeguarding long-term equilibrium.
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