keep one's eye on the ball

Meanings:

• 1.

  Globalneutralinformal
  • Maintain focus on the most important task, goal, or detail; avoid distraction.
  • Remain vigilant about developments that affect a current objective or situation.

• 2.

  Globalneutral
  • Watch the ball closely in a ball sport or similar activity in order to perform well (literal, sports usage).