proverb · Words worth keeping
Don’t worry about eggs that haven’t been laid yet.
Don’t worry about eggs that haven’t been laid yet.
Understand the thought
Meaning in plain English
The instruction postpones worry about eggs not yet laid. It asks someone to distinguish a future possibility from an event already present.
Example
A group notes an uncertain later question and works on the decisions whose facts are available now.
Deeper explanation and when to use it
The eggs make an unrealised outcome concrete. A useful application can separate proportionate preparation from anxiety about facts not yet known. It should not dismiss a real concern or require ignoring an identified risk simply because its outcome is pending.
When to use it
Use it to discuss pending possibilities with room for practical preparation.
Keep in mind
An uncertain outcome can still justify planning and attention.
An interpretation of the words, not a claim about their earliest origin.
Attribution & collection notes
- Author or tradition
- Traditional
Attribution: traditional - Country attributed
- Not established
A country attribution does not establish the earliest origin. - Historical period
- Date unknown