Don’t Change Horses in Midstream 🐎
Definition
“Don’t change horses in midstream” is a caution against switching plans or leadership during a critical point, emphasizing the potential risk and instability of making changes in the midst of a crisis.
Synonyms
- Stick with the devil you know
- Hold the course
- Stay the course
- Avoid changing ships mid-ocean
Antonyms
- Change it up
- Swap horses
- Try a different approach
History and Usage
Although the idiom surfaced earlier, it gained particular fame through President Abraham Lincoln. In 1864, Lincoln used this phrase to underscore the strategic wisdom of consistency during troubled times, as he campaigned for re-election. It’s a vivid metaphor for persistence and trust in existing leadership amid strife.
Humor-Filled Quote
”Changing horses in midstream? Great, now we’ll need swimming lessons!”— Anonymous
Similar Figures of Speech
- “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket” - Essentially suggests not to rely entirely on one approach, plan, or individual, as failure could result in catastrophic consequences.
- “A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush” - Advises to value what you have rather than taking risk for potential additional gains that are far from guaranteed.
Common Proverbs
- “Better the devil you know than the devil you don’t know.”
- “When you change the team in midstream, you risk drowning in an ocean of madness!”
Literature, Songs, and Movies
- Literature: Team of Rivals: The Political Genius of Abraham Lincoln by Doris Kearns Goodwin – Richly explores Lincoln’s leadership and choices during critical times.
- Song: “The Times They Are a-Changin’” by Bob Dylan – While not directly about leadership, it captures the essence of navigating change and crisis.
- Movie: Lincoln (2012) – This historical drama captures the period surrounding Lincoln and his leadership during the Civil War.
Intriguing Titles
📚1. Embracing Crisis Leadership: Why Switching Ponies Could Land You in Deep Water Dive into the intricate balance between maintaining leadership stability and the potential hazards of changing direction amidst a crisis.
🎦2. Navigating the Tempest: The Art of Sailing Through Stormy Leadership Waters Explore cinematic references and historical points showcasing the importance of maintaining firm leadership during turbulent times.
🔍3. In the Eye of the Storm: Uncovering the Wisdom of Lincoln’s Leadership An investigative narrative tracing how Lincoln’s advice shapes modern crisis management.
🔄4. Hold the Reins: Why Old Horses Know Best in Crisis Management A playful, yet insightful look into why experienced leadership is crucial and less risky during serious times.
💬5. From Lincoln to the Modern Boardroom: Proven Insights on Fortitude in Crisis Connecting the dots from historical phrases to current day management practices in navigating through turmoil.
### Finish the idiom: "Don't change horses ___."
- [x] in midstream
- [ ] while galloping
- [ ] in the paddock
- [ ] during a trot
> **Explanation:** The idiom is "Don't change horses in midstream," emphasizing not to make leadership changes during a critical or challenging time.
### Which historical figure famously used the phrase "Don't change horses in midstream"?
- [ ] Winston Churchill
- [ ] Martin Luther King Jr.
- [x] Abraham Lincoln
- [ ] Theodore Roosevelt
> **Explanation:** President Abraham Lincoln used this phrase during his re-election campaign in 1864 to stress the importance of consistent leadership during the Civil War.
### True or False: The phrase "Don't change horses in midstream" applies only to political contexts.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** While it's famously used in political contexts, the phrase is applicable to any scenario where stability in leadership is crucial.
### Which of these is a correct synonym for "Don't change horses in midstream"?
- [ ] Pack the whole barn
- [ ] Sing a new tune
- [x] Stay the course
- [ ] Swing for the fences
> **Explanation:** "Stay the course" is functionally equivalent to "Don't change horses in midstream," encouraging steadiness and persistence amidst a challenge.
### Choose the correct antonym for the phrase "Don't change horses in midstream."
- [ ] Stick with it
- [x] Change it up
- [ ] Keep it steady
- [ ] Hold the reins
> **Explanation:** "Change it up" is an antonym suggesting the opposite approach, recommending change instead of stability.
“Remember, when the waves of uncertainty rock your boat, sometimes the horse you crossed half the river with is the steed that will see you to dry land.”
—E. Pluribus Proverb, 2023
