One monk shoulders water by himself; two can still share the labor among them When it comes to three, they have to go thirsty

Similar sayings:

Look for a thing until you find it and you’ll not lose your labor Look for a thing until you find it and you’ll not lose your labor
Friend, do not try to borrow combs from shaven monks Friend, do not try to borrow combs from shaven monks
If you share a man’s wealth, try to lessen his misfortune If you share a man’s wealth, try to lessen his misfortune
The water that bears the ship is the same that engulfs it The water that bears the ship is the same that engulfs it
Water that has reached its level does not flow Water that has reached its level does not flow

Chinese sayings and proverbs