Silly Old Bear

I recently finished The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff. It’s humorous and charming as it teaches the basic principles of Taoism through the interactions of A. A. Milne’s beloved characters. I enjoyed the book, although the concepts are nearly a foreign language to a perfectionist. 

Three basic principles of Taoism are inaction, simplicity, and living in harmony with nature. They sound noble and idealistic. But imagine how a perfectionist might approach trying to implement them. 

Inaction. Since my self-worth is tied to my accomplishments, then inaction is just going to prevent me from achieving. If I don’t step up and work toward something commendable, then how can I get the applause my ego needs? If I sit idly by and wait for good things to happen to me, the loss of control will drive me bonkers. 

Simplicity. I need to have all my ducks in a row, my schedule organized, and my to do list ready for checking off. I can’t afford to be simple in the face of the intricacies of life. My existence is too complex to let things simply play out. I’ve gotta have things well-planned. 

Living in harmony with nature. It’s a jungle out there. I can’t just go out and smell the roses. Who knows what might happen while I’m away from my desk? I’ve gotta be where I can watch the clock and stay on-task. 

Although an oversimplification, my responses to the three principles illustrate the exact reason a perfectionist could benefit from taking things slowly and relinquishing control. 

While Eeyore frets, and Piglet hesitates, and Rabbit calculates, and Owl pontificates, Pooh just is. 

Silly old bear. We could learn a thing or two from him. 

To be continued . . . with Part 73