find another gear

verb2

1. •
   To suddenly achieve an extra burst of athletic performance, especially after a sustained period of competitive exertion.

   • But the Devils found another gear in the third period and found the energy that had been lacking throughout a sluggish second period. — 1999
2. •
   To achieve enhanced performance.

   • Management's ultimate goal is to become one of the world's top five automakers. That will require finding another gear. — 2001