Full Idea
It is because those in authority are too fond of action that the people are difficult to govern.
Gist of Idea
People are hard to govern because authorities love to do things
Source
Laozi (Lao Tzu) (Daodejing (Tao Te Ching) [c.530 BCE], II.LXXV.181)
Book Reference
Lao Tzu: 'Tao Te Ching', ed/tr. Lau,D.C. [Penguin 1963], p.137
A Reaction
I love this. It should be on the wall of every human institution in our civilization. How the heart sinks at the prospect of a 'new initiative'. Not that I am against action; it is just important to recognise that inaction is sometimes the best option.