For instance, if in the drug-taking ‘gear’ a component is missing, we may be creating difficulties for ourselves. Insofar as clothes are concerned, we probably need to act more appropriately. [1]
If you are in high gear, then you are making rapid progress.
If you are in a low gear, then you are moving slower and steadier, paying attention to the details, but not necessarily making great progress. [2]
2. If gear is on a car, one will want to take a trip.
3. If putting a car in gear, one is going forward.
4. If putting car in reverse, one is militating against one’s own progress. [3]