The 411 - Hit the ground running

The expression "hit the ground running" is believed to have originated in the military, particularly during World War II. Its literal meaning refers to soldiers or paratroopers immediately engaging in action as soon as they land on the ground, without any pause or hesitation. This phrase was used to describe the urgency and readiness required in combat situations.

Over time, the expression evolved to have a more figurative meaning in everyday language. It came to represent starting a new task, project, or job with an immediate enthusiasm, effectiveness, and efficiency. The idea is that just as a soldier landing in a combat zone needs to be ready for action right away, a person entering a new endeavor should be well-prepared and ready to make an immediate impact.

The phrase has become widely used in various contexts, including business, sports, and other areas where a quick and effective start is crucial. It's often used to emphasize the importance of being well-prepared and proactive from the very beginning of a new undertaking.

Source: Some or all of the content was generated using an AI language model