Bite Off More Than One Can Chew 🦷🍞
“Bite off more than one can chew, to” - To take on more than one can accomplish; also, to be too greedy or too ambitious. Versions of this cliché, warning against taking on too much, date from the Middle Ages and appear in ancient Chinese writings as well. A lighthearted more recent example is Ogden Nash’s (from “Prayer at the End of a Rope,” 1939): “Let me not bite more off the cob than I have teeth to chew; please let me finish just one job before the next is due.”
Similar Terms:
- Overextend oneself: To commit oneself to more than one can handle, leading to stress and burnout.
- Be in over one’s head: To be involved in a situation that is too difficult to manage.
- Challenging Hercules: Referring humorously to attempting feats that are well beyond one’s capabilities.
Related Proverbs:
- “Don’t bite off more than you can chew.” - An advice to avoid overcommitting.
- “The candle that burns twice as bright burns half as long.” - Take a manageable load to sustain progress longer.
- “One can’t carry two watermelons in one hand.” - Manages only what is feasible.
Humorous Quote:
- “I’m done trying to bite for now. Turns out I don’t have a gullet for a five-course job when a sandwich will do.” - Anonymous Overdoer
Suggested Literature and Arts:
- Books: “The Overachiever’s Guide to Banishing Burnout” by Edward Bueller.
- Movies: Office Space (1999) - A comical take on corporate burnout.
- Songs: “Take It Easy” by The Eagles - A classic reminder not to overburden oneself.
- Poetry: “Go and Catch a Falling Star” by John Donne - Subtle reflections on unattainable challenges.
Farewell: As we navigate the many tasks and ambitions of our day-to-day lives, let’s remember that a balanced effort often leads to a more fulfilling accomplishment. Don’t gnaw more of life’s cob if your teeth might tumble. Making fewer but steady strides brings you closer to triumphs more meaningful and lasting.
Yours truly, Greta Wordsmith 🍏
Published: 2023-10-02
