Region: General | Usage example: Trying to travel constantly and hold down the same job means you can't have your cake and eat it too.

You can't have your cake and eat it too

Meaning

You cannot keep something while also using it.

Used when someone wants contradictory benefits.

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

English proverb recorded in the 16th century.

Popularized in folk sayings and later in musicals and films.