find (one's) bearings

find (one's) bearings

To recognize or determine one's orientation, position, or abilities relative to one's surroundings or situation. It took me a little while to find my bearings in the new office, but after a week, I felt as if I'd been working there for years. We need to get above the treeline if we're going to find our bearings and reach the campsite before dark.See also: bearing, find

find/get your ˈbearings

find out exactly where you are, or the details of the situation you are in, especially when this is new and unfamiliar: We got off the bus right in the centre of town and it took us a moment or two to get our bearings.I’ve only been in the job for a week so I’m still finding my bearings.See also: bearing, find, get