Bird Quote by Ian Holloway
“You never count your chickens before they hatch. I used to keep parakeets and I never counted every egg thinking I would get all eight birds. You just hoped they came out of the nest box looking all right. I'm like a swan at the moment. I look fine on top of the water but under the water my little legs are going mad.”
About This Quote
The quote warns against assuming success before it actually occurs, using a personal anecdote about counting eggs and a swan metaphor.
In simple terms: Don’t assume outcomes before they happen.
Avoid premature expectations.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- project planning
- personal goals
- team management
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What assumptions are you making about upcoming results?
- How can you verify progress before celebrating?
Assuming success can lead to disappointment if reality differs.