Skip to content

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…” quote by Ian Holloway
Download Open image
“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.”

Ian Holloway

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.

Key Takeaway

Avoid premature expectations.

Themes

patience expectation humor

Mood

reflective lighthearted

Type

advice metaphorical

When to use this quote

  • project planning
  • personal goals
  • team management

Key Concepts

probability optimism self‑deception

Questions to Reflect On

  • What assumptions are you making about upcoming results?
  • How can you verify progress before celebrating?
A Different Perspective

Assuming success can lead to disappointment if reality differs.

4.7 out of 5 (3 ratings)

More by Ian Holloway

Explore all 33 Ian Holloway quotes

More Bird quotes

Browse all 4,802 Bird quotes