stand on one's own feet


stand on (one's) own (two) feet

To be strong and independent; to not need the help, guidance, or resources of another person. He never left home after high school, so he never learned to stand on his own two feet. You're a talented programmer, and you could have a lot of influence here if you stood on your own feet a bit more.See also: feet, on, own, stand

stand on one's own feet

Act or behave independently, as in You've got to learn to stand on your own feet and not always listen to your peers. [Mid-1500s] See also: feet, on, own, stand