put one's mind to it
Focus with determination
To put one's mind to something is to focus determination and mental effort on achieving it.
The phrase implies that success depends mainly on commitment rather than ability: You could learn to play piano if you put your mind to it.
Often used encouragingly or as mild reproach for lack of effort.
- concentrationSustained single-minded attention
- planningArranging for future events
- perseveranceSustained resolve despite obstacles
- gritDetermination or abrasive particles
- focusConcentrated attention point
zero in · attention · mental effort · execution · self-discipline · resolve · commitment · buckle down · resilience · strategy · achievement · see it through · willpower · ambition · deliberation · tenacity · prioritization · initiative
put one's mind to itgive up
Stop attempting something
go through the motions · phone it in · slack off · throw in the towel · mail it in
puts, putting, putter, ones, oneness, mind, minds, minded, mindful