not rest on (one's) laurels
not rest on (one's) laurels
To continue putting forth effort, trying to innovate, or working to advance one's career or status instead of relying on one's past achievements or accolades to remain relevant or successful. I know your first novel was a smash success, but don't rest on your laurels or you're going to fade into obscurity. Despite its dominance in the market, the company has never rested on its laurels, continuing to produce interesting and innovative designs.
See also: laurel, not, on, rest
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
not rest on your laurels
COMMON If someone does not rest on their laurels, they continue working hard to make sure that they continue to be successful rather than relying on the success they have already had. Note: In ancient Greece, the laurel or bay tree was associated with the god Apollo. The winning competitors in the Pythian games, which were held in honour of Apollo, were given crowns or wreaths of laurel. We will not rest on our laurels. There is still much to be done. He never rested on his laurels but continually evolved as an artist. Note: People sometimes say that a person or organization rests on their laurels. The trouble with all successful restaurants is their tendency to rest on their laurels.
See also: laurel, not, on, rest
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.
- better (to be) safe than sorry
- better safe than sorry
- at (one's) doorstep
- at doorstep
- (there's) no peace/rest for the wicked
- an all-out effort
- at (one's) expense
- at expense
- at somebody's expense
- at someone's expense