Over twenty years ago I read an article that contained two quotes: “A leader is best when people barely know he exists” and “When all is done the people say, We Did It”. As a new manager these quotes created possibility for the kind of boss I hoped some day to be. I later learned these ideas are attributed to a man named Lao Tze, a Chinese teacher who 2500 years ago authored the “Tao Te Ching” or in English “The Way”. These ancient writings are incredibly insightful and just as relevant to the human journey now as it was back then.
As a salesman and sales manager, I was intrigued on how to apply these ideas in the context of the sales process. Using the Tao Te Ching as a model, I’ve crafted these ideas into a set of universal principles for sales professionals. They are shared to anyone involved in the process of selling and desires to learn by unlearning.
It is my hope the reader finds value in these words and they enable wellness and success in the profession of sales.
Best wishes,
Pat Helmers – Plano, Illinois
I help startups earn their first sales and B2B businesses boost brand, authority, influence and trust with podcasting.
I am a business consultant and coach, a Stoic and Taoist, with aspirations of leaving the world in a little better place.
I host a podcast called Sales Babble. Selling secrets for non-sellers.
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The Tao Te Ching of Sales 
This is really interesting, Pat. I wrote a guest post once on Marketing and the Tao. When asked to write a piece on marketing and Taoism, I was not really sure how they would intersect, but as I was writing my piece it was incredible. I could not help thinking, we need more Taoist principles in business! I have always loved business, marketing and the Tao. How fun to find your work. Would love to connect!
Thank you Amy for the kind words. When I started in sales I was immediately slapped down for pushing too hard. As I matured in the profession it became clear a path of balance would reap rewards. Lao Tze’s coaching is timeless and as a manager I want to share this insight with others, thus this blog. I have subscribed to your postings and look forward to reading more.
Bobby Jones once said “Golf is a game that is played on a five-inch course–the distance between your ears.“. Much like the game of golf, sales are made in your head. Conquer your self, and you are invincible.
Intriguing thoughts Pat, keep up the good work!
Bobby Jones once said, “Golf is a game that is played on a five-inch course–the distance between your ears.“ Much like the game of Golf, Sales are made in your head. Conquer yourself, and your become unbeatable.
Intriguing stuff Pat, keep up the good work!
Bobby was a Taoist at heart.
Nice Work! People should read this!
Thanks for the kind words and again, I agree completely. Please tell your friends!