When it comes to shaking up the status quo, there are a variety of words and phrases that can be used instead of "stirring things up." For example, one could "rock the boat," "turn things on their head," or "upset the apple cart." Other synonyms could include "disrupting the norm," "putting a wrench in the works," or "throwing a curveball." Essentially, any phrase that conveys the idea of changing the expected outcome or process could be used as a substitute for "stirring things up." The key is to choose a phrase that fits the specific situation and intention.