Confucius on Skill Development: Why He Didn’t Pursue Office

[Original text]

9·7 Lao(1) said, “Zi Yun said, ‘I do not try(2), so I am skilled.’”

[Notes]

(1) Lao: Zheng Xuan said that this person was a student of Confucius, but this person is not mentioned in the “Historical Records: Biography of Zhongni’s Disciples.”

(2) Shi: to use, to be appointed.

[Translation]

Zi Lao said, “Confucius said, ‘I (when I was young) did not become an official, so I know many skills.’”

[Commentary]

This chapter is related to the content of the previous chapter, and is also used to illustrate Confucius’s idea that “I did not know it by birth.” He did not consider himself a “sage” or a “genius,” and he said that his

many talents were due to the fact that he did not become an official when he was young and lived a relatively poor life, so he mastered many skills to make a living.

Confucius, one of China’s most revered philosophers, is often associated with profound wisdom and an emphasis on moral values. But did you know that his diverse skill set, which he believed to be a result of not holding an official position in his youth, offers valuable insights into personal development? In this article, we delve into Confucius’s reflections on skill acquisition and how his choice to forgo a political career shaped his expertise.

The Philosophy Behind Skill Development

Confucius once shared a thought-provoking observation about his own life: “I did not hold an official position when I was young, so I became skilled in many crafts.” This statement is not merely a reflection of personal pride but a deep philosophical insight into how circumstances can shape one’s abilities. According to Confucius, his various skills were not innate but developed out of necessity and opportunity during his early years when he lived a relatively humble life.

Understanding the Context

To appreciate Confucius’s perspective, it is essential to understand the context in which he lived. Confucius was born into a period of social and political upheaval in ancient China. Despite his noble aspirations, he did not initially pursue an official career. Instead, he focused on honing his skills and knowledge in various areas. This period of his life, marked by financial struggle and a lack of political power, ironically provided him with the time and motivation to develop a broad range of talents.

The Link Between Adversity and Skill Acquisition

Confucius’s experience underscores a vital lesson about adversity and skill acquisition. Often, it is through facing challenges and limitations that individuals discover their hidden talents and develop new skills. For Confucius, the absence of an official role allowed him to explore different fields and refine his abilities. This notion is relevant even today, as many successful individuals have found that their greatest growth occurs during times of personal or professional struggle.

Relevance to Modern Life

In the modern world, Confucius’s philosophy can be applied to various aspects of life. Whether you are navigating a career transition, pursuing personal goals, or dealing with setbacks, his insights suggest that these experiences can be valuable learning opportunities. Embracing challenges and focusing on skill development can lead to unexpected growth and new opportunities.

Confucius’s statement about his youthful choice to avoid official duties highlights a universal truth: our skills and expertise are often shaped by the circumstances we find ourselves in. By reflecting on Confucius’s life and philosophy, we can gain a deeper understanding of how adversity and perseverance contribute to personal development. His legacy reminds us that skill acquisition is not solely about inherent talent but also about the choices we make and the experiences we embrace.

By examining the wisdom of historical figures like Confucius, we can draw valuable lessons for our own lives, finding inspiration in their journeys and applying their insights to our personal growth.