set one's sights on
Aim to achieve
To set one's sights on something is to establish it as a goal or target you intend to achieve.
The expression comes from aiming a weapon by aligning its sights with a target.
She set her sights on becoming CEO before forty.
The phrase implies focused determination and often suggests ambition toward something difficult or distant.
You can also lower or raise your sights, adjusting expectations downward or upward.
Strong desire for achievement
target · pursuit · endeavor · achievement · success · accomplishment · milestone · attainment
Firmness of purpose
- commitmentFirm pledge to act
- dedicationWholehearted loyalty to purpose
- perseveranceSustained resolve despite obstacles
- tenacityPersistent grip or resolve
persistence · drive · motivation · focus · willpower · grit · steadfastness · single-mindedness
aspiration
Strong desire for achievement
objective · target · pursuit · endeavor · achievement · success · accomplishment · milestone · attainment · realization
resolve
Firmness of purpose
- commitmentFirm pledge to act
- dedicationWholehearted loyalty to purpose
- perseveranceSustained resolve despite obstacles
tenacity · persistence · drive · motivation · focus · willpower · grit · steadfastness · single-mindedness · unwavering
yearn
Deeply desire something
hanker · wish · hope · hunger · thirst · pine for · ache for · dream of · fantasize · envision
chase
Rapid following of quarry
quest · hunt · reach for · go after · zero in on · hone in on · track · follow
set one's sights ondrift
Gradual movement, no direction
go with the flow · meander · flounder · lose focus · lose one's way
set one's sights ongive up on
lose sight of · abandon · let go of · walk away from · turn one's back on
sets, setting, setter, setters, ones, sight, sights, sighted, sighting