What If Your Greatest Achievements Came From Doing Less?

In Game 5 of the 1997 NBA Finals, Michael Jordan wasn’t just battling the Utah Jazz—he was battling food poisoning.

Weak and exhausted. He wasn't his usual athletic self.

So he had to pace himself and trust his instincts. Surprisingly, he ended up leading the Chicago Bulls to a critical victory.

Some even called it his best performance.

Jordan’s performance was a perfect example of Wu Wei, the Taoist principle of trying without trying.

Here's why you should apply it in your life:

Bear with me, this might get a bit woo woo but it'll be worth it.

What is Wu Wei?

Wu Wei translates as "non-doing" or "effortless action."

It's about flowing with the natural pace of things.

Not trying to force them. Being in the present and taking each step as it comes. Following the flow of the river as it flows.

Like a tree in the wind.

It just flows and adapts as the wind blows. It doesn't fight the wind. It doesn't try to premeditate the winds direction. It just flows and waves.

Wu Wei is like being the tree.

Applying Wu Wei:

There’s a misunderstanding that the key to success is:

• Pushing harder

• Working longer hours

• Or constantly striving for more

But wu wei offers a different approach.

It's about letting go of the need for control. Focus on working at a natural pace. Trusting your intuitive skill and flowing through the work and taking rests as needed.

Basically, it boils down to trusting the process.

Wu Wei is about finding power in simplicity.

So what can we learn from Jordan's game and Wu Wei?

In a world that pushes us to do more and try harder, Wu Wei shows us that there's a more harmonious way to work. A way that's more effective and sustainable in the long run.

So the next time you're working, stop forcing it. Relax. Follow your instincts. You might be surprised at what you find.

As always, stay thriving.

Shoaib.