To take an idea, project, or responsibility and develop it independently, often with enthusiasm and creative freedom.
This phrase likely evolved from sports metaphors, particularly American football where a player 'runs with the ball' after receiving it. The business usage developed in the mid-20th century, transforming the athletic concept of taking possession and advancing into professional contexts of taking initiative and ownership.
What's delightful about this phrase is how it captures both the physical momentum of running and the mental momentum of creative development. It suggests not just taking responsibility, but doing so with energy and forward motion - turning delegation into an athletic metaphor.
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