Lack of Long-Term End-Goal Orientation in the Chinese Planning Economy
The Chinese planning economy lacks a long-term end-goal orientation, relying instead on adaptive phased approaches, such as rolling Five-Year Plans that are frequently adjusted to suit evolving leadership priorities and external conditions. This flexibility undermines a commitment to clear, enduring goals, promoting a reactive, incrementalist model instead. The governance practices in China also contrast sharply with Don Miguel Ruiz's Five Agreements, as the state prioritizes narrative control over transparency, reacts defensively to criticism, communicates ambiguously, emphasizes speed and output over quality, and suppresses dissent instead of practicing open listening. Additionally, the Chinese governance model is incompatible with the Six Core Processes of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Acceptance is often replaced with denial of inconvenient truths, while cognitive defusion is undermined by conflating party ideology with reality. The focus on future projections neglects present realities, and the rigid, monolithic view of state identity stifles the flexibility of perspective encouraged in ACT. Overall, the Chinese system's emphasis on adaptability and control can create a challenging environment for fostering trust, communication, and genuine engagement, both domestically and internationally.
The Concept of Dharma: Definition and Core Principles
Dharma is a key concept in Indian religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism, representing principles of order, righteousness, and the intrinsic structure of the universe and society. It encompasses individual duty, virtue, and ethical conduct, adapting to context while aiming to sustain harmony and prevent chaos. Don Miguel Ruiz’s Five Agreements offer practical guidance for self-mastery, emphasizing integrity, understanding, clear communication, personal effort, and a balanced skepticism. These principles align with the idea of dharma, promoting right action and social harmony. Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) focuses on enhancing psychological flexibility through six core processes: acceptance, cognitive defusion, mindful awareness, self-as-context, values clarification, and committed action. These processes encourage living in accordance with personal values, echoing dharma's ethical and duty-driven aspects. Stephen Covey’s Seven Habits of Highly Effective People promote principles for personal and interpersonal effectiveness, such as proactivity, setting clear goals, prioritizing tasks, empathetic communication, and continuous self-improvement. Overall, these frameworks share a foundation in moral integrity and ethical responsibility, guiding individuals toward authentic living, self-harmony, and social accord.