Kill the goose that lays the golden egg/eggs

Pro Tip 1/3

Aesop's Fable

The phrase originates from a fable by Aesop about a farmer who sacrificed long-term benefits for short-term gains.

She's risking the project's future if she cuts corners; it's like killing the goose that lays the golden eggs.

Pro Tip 2/3

Idiomatic caution

Used to caution against actions that could ruin something that’s consistently beneficial.

Don't overwork your staff, or you'll kill the goose that lays the golden egg.

Pro Tip 3/3

Metaphoric value

This metaphor is often applied to financial and business situations, but can also relate to personal relationships.

Ignoring her health issues might kill the goose that lays the golden egg.