move (something) into a higher gear

To begin to act or do something in a more energetic, vigorous, or effective manner than previously. Likened to a vehicle, such as a car or bike, using a higher gear to attain greater speed or power. They're going to have to move things into a higher gear if they want to beat the returning champions. I notice that you've really moved into a higher gear with your work lately. Great job!

move (something) into a higher gear

If someone or something moves into a higher gear or if someone moves it into a higher gear, people act with more energy and effort or something starts to be done with more energy and effort. Note: The image in the following idioms is of driving a car. The road-building programme has moved into a higher gear. Now he has moved into a higher gear, launching two new companies in the US. After moving the country's war preparations into a higher gear, the prime minister is taking a weekend break. Note: Other verbs such as shift or switch are sometimes used instead of move. Cancer research could shift into a higher gear thanks to these new findings.