The Sinology and Daoist sections of my library are manageable, but have grown considerably over the years. Nevertheless, I couldn’t find the name Yáng Xióng (揚雄, 53 BC – 18 AD) in any reference book, which is surprising given the fact that Yáng made a name for himself as a poet and philosopher during the Han Dynasty in ancient China.
Yáng is the author of the dictum Yǐ tuì wéi jìn 以退为进: (One must) withdraw in order to advance.“ This is stated in his book Fǎ yán 法言, which translates roughly as „Legal Words.“ Withdrawing in order to advance, or in a broader sense, making concessions to gain advantages, is typical of Asian philosophy, which derives norms from contradictions, the observance of which enables humans to live a life in harmony with cosmic laws.
Anyone who practices Wing Tsun is familiar with this: In close combat, once contact is established with the opponent, force is not used against force, but rather redirected to achieve the goal without resistance. „If the opponent is too strong, give in!“ is one of the fighting principles. Then you have to look for a new way to find a gap in the opponent’s defense, and another fighting principle comes into play: „If the way is clear, push forward!“
This can also be applied to everyday situations, whether at work or in private life. Using force against force, i.e., engaging in direct confrontation, rarely achieves the desired result.