Laozi (Lao tzu; also Lao Tse, Laotze, Lao Zi, and other variations) was a philosopher of ancient China and is a central figure in Taoism (also spelled "Daoism"). Laozi literally means "Old Master" and is generally considered an honorific.
 
According to Chinese tradition, Laozi lived in the 6th century BC. Laozi was credited with writing the central daoist work the Daodejing (Tao Te Ching), which was originally known simply as the Laozi.
 
A central figure in Chinese culture, both nobility and common people claim Laozi in their lineage.
Zhuangzi, widely considered the intellectual and spiritual successor of Laozi, had a notable impact on Chinese literature, culture and spirituality.
 
We are convinced that one of his Aphorisms shows quite clearly that he can also be seen as the inventor of Change Management. We quote him respectfully, since we fully identify with his change management approach.

Go to the people.
Live with them.
Learn from them.
Love them.

Start with what they know.
Build with what they have.
But with the best leaders:
when the work is done,
the task accomplished,
the people will say:
"We have done this ourselves"