Raise/lower your sights

usgb
phrase

To adjust expectations or goals, upward or downward, according to what seems achievable.

After years of unsuccessful job hunting, he lowered his sights and applied for lower-paying jobs.
Visual representation of "raise/lower your sights" - To adjust expectations or goals, upward or downward, according to what seems achievable.

Often appears as...

  • lower your sights on ambitions
  • raise your sights higher
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "raise/lower your sights"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Expectation Adjustment

The phrase often indicates a change in one's aims due to new information or realities.

Illustration for Expectation Adjustment
After the economic downturn, many companies had to lower their sights regarding profits.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Realistic Goals

Using this phrase can suggest someone is being more realistic about their abilities or opportunities.

Illustration for Realistic Goals
Realizing he wasn't a strong swimmer, he lowered his sights and decided against competing in the race.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Avoid Overconfidence

To 'raise your sights' can imply becoming too ambitious or overly confident about outcomes.

Illustration for Avoid Overconfidence
She raised her sights too high and was disappointed when she couldn't meet her goal.
Visual representation of the word "Raise/lower your sights"

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