Trying Not to Try - Edward Slingerland

Have you ever noticed that the harder you try to reach a goal, the more unattainable it becomes? But once you relax and stop trying, it suddenly comes within your grasp. In “Trying not to Try,” Edward Slingerland—an eminent sinologist and philosopher—explains and analyses this phenomenon through the notion of “wu-wei.” Found in various schools of Chinese philosophy, this term denotes acting without premeditation or strong intention in a spontaneous manner. Slingerland intertwines Asian philosophy with recent scientific findings to elucidate how and why this concept can help a Western reader learn the art of “going with the flow”.

Why is it hard to fall asleep the night before an important meeting? Or be charming and relaxed on a first date? What is it about a comedian whose jokes fall flat or an athlete who chokes?

What if, contrary to what we have long been told, spontaneity - not striving - is the answer to success? Through stories of mythical creatures and drunken cart riders, jazz musicians and Japanese motorcycle gangs, Slingerland effortlessly blends Eastern thought and cutting-edge science to show us how we can embody a spontaneous way of being and live more fulfilling lives.

A Guardian Best Book of 2014
A 2014 Brain Pickings Best Book on Psychology, Philosophy, and How to Live Meaningfully

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