The phrase "count chickens" is an idiom that means to become overconfident before a certain result is secured. For example, if someone starts celebrating before completing a task, they are "counting chickens before they hatch." Antonyms of this phrase include "be cautious," "don't jump the gun," and "don't celebrate too soon." These antonyms all communicate the idea of stopping to think before taking any action or making any assumptions based on incomplete information. It's important to avoid counting chickens in life and instead focus on the task at hand, taking things one step at a time while remaining prepared for any outcome.