Live by your wits
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Survival Instinct
Emphasizes the need for quick thinking in tough situations where you have to rely on yourself. 
When stranded in the wild, she had to live by her wits.
Pro Tip 2/3Resourcefulness
Highlights using available resources creatively to solve problems or face challenges. 
Without money, he had to live by his wits, finding food and shelter wherever he could.
Pro Tip 3/3Entrepreneurial Spirit
Often used to describe someone making smart and innovative choices in business contexts. 
The startup founder had to live by her wits to navigate the early days of her company.