Courage lies in weakness or retreating, in bravely choosing not to venture into doing something. This exemplifies the wisdom in Laozi’s concepts of “weakness” and “non-action.” According to Laozi, it is dangerous to always push ahead stubbornly. One should advance when advancing is appropriate and retreat when retreating is appropriate. True courage is demonstrated not only in daring to do something, but even more so by not venturing into doing something. One must not only do, but also refrain from doing something rashly. This is a reminder that there are things that one must respect and obey. One should be brave enough to retreat and to refrain from doing something which violates rules, tramples on principles and disrupts norms. This applies to matters as minor as getting along with others and as big as governing a country.

Those with the courage to dare are killed; those with the courage to not dare survive. （Laozi）