Pick up/take the ball and run with it

usgb
verb

To take over a task or project from someone and make good progress.

When the manager left the company, Sam decided to pick up the ball and run with it.
Visual representation of "pick up/take the ball and run with it" - To take over a task or project from someone and make good progress.

Often appears as...

  • decide to pick up the ball and run with it
  • need to take the ball and run with it

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "pick up/take the ball and run with it"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Proactive Attitude

The phrase often implies that someone is proactively taking on responsibilities without being asked.

Illustration for Proactive Attitude
As soon as the lead designer quit, Mia picked up the ball and ran with the new project.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Positive Progress

It suggests that not only was a task continued, but also considerable progress was made.

Illustration for Positive Progress
After our coach fell ill, the captain picked up the ball and ran with it, leading the team to victory.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Self-initiative

Indicates an individual's initiative to take control of a situation without relying on others.

Illustration for Self-initiative
Lena picked up the ball and ran with it, organizing the event when everyone else was hesitant.
Visual representation of the word "Pick up/take the ball and run with it"

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