It means to let things take their own course, don’t force things too much, and don’t think too much about utility.

The famous saying "Don't rush to be first when the water is flowing" comes from the Japanese chess legend Takagawa Hideka. It means that playing chess is like flowing clouds and flowing water. Between movement and stillness, one should not be impatient or impatient. Even if the situation is temporarily behind, one should be calm. , patiently waiting for the opportunity.

Since it is already "flowing water", the so-called "flow will fall into place" is a natural thing. There is no need to fight for fame and fortune, no need to be anxious and hesitant. You should work hard persistently, hone yourself, and wait for the opportunity.

Extended information

Idioms with similar meanings

The best is like water

Pinyin: shàng shàn ruò shuǐ.

Interpretation: The highest character is like water, benefiting all things without striving for fame and wealth.

From: Laozi's "Tao Te Ching" in the Spring and Autumn Period: "The highest good is like water. Water is good for all things and does not compete with it. It is what everyone hates, so it is less than the Tao."

Translation: The highest good image water. Water is good at helping all things without competing with them. It stays in places that no one likes, so its nature is close to truth.