feet on the ground

feet on the ground  {n. phr.}

An understanding of what can be done; sensible ideas. Used with a possessive.

John has his feet on the ground; he knows he cannot learn everything at once.

Ted dreams of sudden riches, but Henry keeps his feet on the ground and expects to work for his money.

Mrs. Smith was a dreamer, but her husband was a man with his feet on the ground.

Contrast: IN THE CLOUDS.