Put (one) on the shelf verb phrase
To cause someone unable or unavailable to do something
They put our plan on the shelf because they do not have enough money.
I cannot play soccer with my friends this weekend because my left foot was injured.
To delay taking action to solve something
1. To stretch or lengthen something, usually a string or cord of some type
2. To extend, postpone, or make longer than it usually would
1. To stop, delay or diminish something
2. To ignore or end social contact with someone; to separate someone from others
To delay or postpone something that is predicted to be unpleasant, difficult or annoying for as long as possible
The verb "put" should be conjugated according to its tense.
To keep optimistic or have hope that something positive will occur and simultaneously prepare for a negative outcome
All I can do is hoping for the best and preparing for the worst.