play to win

verb2

1. •
   To play in an especially competitive, committed manner, focused intently on winning.

   • "[W]e just got totally outplayed. Instead of playing to win, we were playing not to lose." — 1992
2. •
   To make a special, determined effort to achieve general success or a particular goal, in life, in one's career, in negotiation, etc.

   • "The difference between playing to win and playing not to lose is the difference between the successful executive and the security-hunting, mediocre man. — 1988