To lead people, walk beside them ...As for the best leaders, the people do not notice their existence.The next best, the people honor and praise.The next, the people fear; and the next, the people hate ...When the best leader's work is done the people say,We did it ourselves!”

Lao Tzu (also known as Laozi) was an ancient Chinese philosopher and writer who lived in the 6th century BCE. He is traditionally credited as the author of the Tao Te Ching, a fundamental text for both philosophical and religious Taoism. His name literally translates to "Old Master," and he is considered the founder of Taoism. According to legend, he worked as an archivist in the imperial library of the Zhou Dynasty.

This quote comes from the Tao Te Ching, specifically reflecting on the nature of leadership within Taoist philosophy. The passage emphasizes the Taoist concept of "wu-wei" (non-action or effortless action), suggesting that the most effective leadership is subtle and non-interfering. The quote illustrates a hierarchy of leadership styles, from the ideal (invisible) to the worst (tyrannical), and aligns with Taoism's core principle that the best governance is one that allows people to follow their natural way without excessive intervention.

The message resonates strongly with modern servant leadership philosophy, where leaders empower their followers rather than dominate them. It suggests that true leadership success comes when people feel they have achieved things themselves, rather than having been forcefully directed.