Zhang Juzheng, a prominent statesman of the Ming Dynasty, was the Grand Secretary and one of the most influential reformers during the reign of Emperor Wanli. Born in Jingzhou, Hubei, Zhang was a child prodigy who passed the imperial examinations at the age of 16. His intelligence and capabilities earned him a position as a scholar at the Hanlin Academy, where he was mentored by powerful figures such as Xu Jie.
Interestingly, Zhang’s family background was deeply tied to the early Ming Dynasty. His ancestor, Zhang Guanbao, fought alongside Zhu Yuanzhang (the founding emperor of the Ming) and was rewarded with a hereditary military household status. This military lineage, however, did not prevent Zhang from pursuing a career as a civil official, proving that merit could outweigh birthright in certain cases.
One of Zhang Juzheng’s most famous quotes is: “Be flexible in life, and be pragmatic in dealing with others.” He understood that life is not black and white. Navigating the complexities of the political and social world requires adaptability. His wisdom extends far beyond the Ming Dynasty and remains highly relevant today.
Eight Timeless Lessons from Zhang Juzheng
1. Observe Words and Actions Carefully
“Listen to what people say and observe what they do. Look beyond appearances to understand their true intentions.”
Zhang Juzheng emphasized the importance of being a keen observer. In today’s world, this translates to the ability to assess people’s reliability not just by their words but also by their actions—an essential skill in business and personal relationships.
2. Strategize Instead of Arguing
“Rather than arguing for someone, plan for them; rather than dying for them, help them live.”
This highlights the importance of practical solutions over empty debates. Instead of wasting energy on disputes, Zhang advocated for strategic action—a lesson that leaders and problem-solvers can still apply today.
3. Success is Easy; Managing Success is Harder
“Achieving success is not difficult; what is difficult is maintaining it.”
Many people work hard to achieve success but struggle to sustain it. Zhang’s insight reminds us to remain humble and disciplined even after reaching our goals.
4. Focus Leads to Success
“Assign responsibilities properly, and do not scatter your efforts.”
This advice resonates with modern productivity principles—multitasking often leads to inefficiency, while focus and delegation bring better results.
5. Substance Over Superficiality
“A true gentleman values substance over appearance, and inner virtue over outward show.”
In an era dominated by social media, where image often overshadows substance, Zhang’s words serve as a timeless reminder to prioritize inner growth over mere external presentation.
6. Fear Leads to Caution, and Caution Prevents Failure
“Fear brings deep thought, deep thought brings insight. Fear brings caution, and caution prevents failure.”
A healthy level of fear can lead to careful planning, reducing the likelihood of failure. In the modern world, this applies to risk assessment in business, finance, and even personal decisions.
7. Evaluate People Thoroughly
“When appointing people, assess their past performance; when assigning roles, ensure a good fit.”
Good hiring decisions are essential for any organization. Zhang’s principle remains vital in human resource management, where thorough background checks and proper role assignment lead to long-term success.
8. Timing and Planning Make Anything Possible
“Assess the timing, plan carefully, and act accordingly—nothing is impossible.”
Success is not just about hard work; it requires the right timing and preparation. Whether launching a business, making investments, or pursuing personal goals, Zhang’s wisdom remains a guiding principle.
The Lasting Legacy of Zhang Juzheng
Zhang Juzheng’s influence extended beyond philosophy; he was a key figure in reforming the Ming administration. His tax reforms improved government efficiency, while his policies strengthened the empire’s finances. Unfortunately, after his death, political enemies dismantled his reforms, highlighting how difficult it is to preserve good policies without strong successors.
In today’s fast-paced world, Zhang’s wisdom can guide us in leadership, decision-making, and personal growth. His insights remind us to be strategic, adaptable, and cautious while maintaining integrity and focus.