berat.dt/ Akif Inan AIHL/ Istanbul

                     DO NOT COUNT YOUR CHICKENS BEFORE THEY HATCH

Definition of count one's chickens (before they hatch)

—Usually used in negative statements to mean that someone should not depend on something hoped for until he or she knows for certain that it will happen don't count your chickens (before they hatch)—

you don't know yet if she will accept your offer.

               It means do not make any plans unless you are certain and ready for it. Not all dreams come true. The hen may sit on 10 eggs for 20 days, but that does not mean that all the incubated eggs will give you chicken. So do not plan a roast chicken dinner inviting ten of your friends.

                       EXAMPLES  

•  She wanted to buy a dress in case someone asked her to the dance, but I told her not to count her chickens before they hatched.            
• Though he was leading the race, he had started celebrating even before the finish line, and in the process lost his lead. He had counted his chickens before they hatched.      
• You'll probably get the job, but don't count your chickens just yet .