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Mastering The Zen Of Flying

Around 600 BCE, Lao Tzu quit a good government job to seek his fulfillment in nature. He summarized his resulting thoughts in the Tao Te Ching, which can be translated as something like The Way of Nature. Its central tenet is that wisdom can be achieved by accepting reality and its causes, and responding accordingly. Questioning or pushing back against nature causes disharmony. In essence, one must go with the flow of nature to avoid unhappiness.

Gemini Sparkle

Key Takeaways:

  • The article advocates for pilots to integrate Taoist principles of accepting reality and "going with the flow" into their flight planning and aeronautical decision-making.
  • While meticulous planning is essential, pilots must remain flexible and willing to adapt their plans to evolving circumstances, especially weather, prioritizing safety over rigid adherence to schedules or destinations.
  • This involves strategies like allowing for early departure, having alternative travel options, preparing for delays, and reserving the right to change or abort a flight at any stage to avoid self-imposed pressures like "get-there-itis."
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Around 600 BCE, Lao Tzu quit a good government job to seek his fulfillment in nature. He summarized his resulting thoughts in the Tao Te Ching, which can be translated as something like The Way of Nature. Its central tenet is that wisdom can be achieved by accepting reality and its causes, and responding accordingly. Questioning or pushing back against nature causes disharmony. In essence, one must go with the flow of nature to avoid unhappiness.

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