Cooling one's heels means to wait impatiently for something or someone. If one wants to convey a sense of urgency or excitement, they might use antonyms to the phrase, such as "getting in on the action" or "jumping in with both feet." Alternatively, if one wants to suggest calm and patience, they might say "taking it slow and steady" or "keeping one's cool while waiting." Other antonyms could include "passing the time productively," "occupying oneself," or "engaging in other activities." Whatever antonym one chooses, it should convey the opposite of the frustrating and tedious experience of cooling one's heels.