make a name for oneself

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.

big name

A widely-known reputation, especially one that is favorable.

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.

buy a dog and bark oneself

To do something that one has hired someone else to do.

call someone every name in the book

To call someone many abusive names.