Live off one's past gains

Explanation: Lao Ben is your starting capital, here is used as a metaphor for your past qualifications, achievements and capabilities. Take business as an example, after you put in your starting capital, if you can't make a profit from it, you'll be losing your "old capital". And as a man, if he only rests on his laurels gained before but makes no new accomplishments, it won’t last very long. Therefore, those who live off their past gains will be looked down upon and won't have a prospect.

Ex1.：

A: How is the business, Manager Li?

B: Don't mention it. I've been living off my past gains all these days. It's getting harder and harder to make money.

Ex2.：

A: You are in very good health, ah?

B: That's all built on my past. Now I'm too busy to find time for exercise. I'm putting on weight day by day.

Ex3.: We are a big company with a high reputation, but still needs to blaze new trails and be bold to negate our past. It won't do if we just live off our past gains.

Explanation: Also called shou qi bao. This is a metaphor for those who are bullied or suffer wrong for no reason.

Ex.: Don't take it out on me. I'm not here for you to vent your anger on.