dig a hole for oneself

ace in the hole

Synonym of ace up one's sleeve.

adorn oneself with borrowed plumes

To claim the honor of another for oneself.

apply oneself

Synonym of strive: to work hard, to complete an activity with good effort and focus.

be oneself

To behave or act naturally, without regard to how this behavior is perceived by others.

bear oneself

To behave and conduct oneself in a particular manner.

blow a hole through

To destroy the integrity or cohesion of.

box oneself into a corner

To create a predicament or problem for oneself; to do something that leaves one with no good alternatives or solutions.

burn a hole in someone's pocket

To cause someone to spend money or be tempted to spend money.