Meaning of the word "better to drink the milk than to eat the cow" in English

What does "better to drink the milk than to eat the cow" mean in English? Explore the meaning, pronunciation, and specific usage of this word with Lingoland.

better to drink the milk than to eat the cow

US /ˈbetər tu drɪŋk ðə mɪlk ðæn tu iːt ðə kaʊ/
UK /ˈbetə tu drɪŋk ðə mɪlk ðæn tu iːt ðə kaʊ/
"better to drink the milk than to eat the cow" picture

Idiom

it is wiser to enjoy the ongoing benefits of an asset rather than consuming the asset itself and losing its future value

Example:
Instead of selling your stocks for a quick profit, remember it's better to drink the milk than to eat the cow.
He decided to keep the rental property for the monthly income, knowing it's better to drink the milk than to eat the cow.