Definition & Bedeutung von "if you run after two hares, you will catch neither"

if you run after two hares, you will catch neither

used to suggest that trying to do too many things at once can lead to a lack of focus and a decrease in overall effectiveness

Proverb

What is the origin of the proverb "if you run after two hares, you will catch neither" and when to use it?

The origin of the proverb "if you run after two hares, you will catch neither" is difficult to trace to a single source, as the idea has appeared in various cultures for centuries. It advises against dividing one's attention between multiple tasks or goals, as doing so can result in achieving none of them. The saying emphasizes the importance of prioritization and dedicating sufficient time and energy to a single goal or task in order to succeed.

Example

The entrepreneur was trying to launch two different businesses simultaneously, but learned that if you run after two hares, you will catch neither, and decided to prioritize one business and put the other on hold.