How to Achieve True Concentration? Zhuangzi Says: Only Through “Sincerity”
In a chaotic world, maintaining focus is not just a skill—it’s a practice. Zhuangzi illustrates through the story of “Ziqing Making a Bellstand” that true concentration stems from one word: Sincerity.
What is “Heart-Mind Fasting” (心斋)?
Zhuangzi’s method involves three stages:
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Unify the will: Remove thoughts of reward, status, or external validation.
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Forget the form: Let go of self-consciousness and others’ opinions.
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Listen with the breath: Enter a void-like state, open to the Dao.
Why “Sincerity” Matters
Zhuangzi warns: “The Dao does not tolerate clutter. Clutter leads to distraction, distraction to worry, worry to failure.” Modern life overwhelms us with information and mixed beliefs. Only through sincere focus can we achieve clarity.
Cultivation Is in the Ordinary
The characters in Zhuangzi’s stories—a wheelwright, a cicada catcher, a butcher—all achieve mastery through everyday tasks. True practice lies in doing simple things with full presence and sincerity.