[Idiom] SHAPE UP OR SHIP OUT. - Master the Art of Self-Improvement!

Improve behavior or leave.

Shake things up or ship out" is a straightforward ultimatum demanding that someone improves their performance or behavior, or face exclusion from a job or situation. It originates from military or nautical terms, where "shape up" referred to performing adequately, and "ship out" referred to being sent away. Today, it’s a call for immediate and significant improvement in any context.

Example Sentences

1. You need to shape up or ship out.

   Improve your performance or leave.

2. They were told to shape up or ship out.

   They were given a warning to improve or face consequences.

3. It's time to tell the underperforming employees to shape up or ship out.

   It's time to warn the underperforming employees to improve or leave.