pull oneself up by bootstraps

pull oneself up by one's (own) bootstraps

Fig. to improve or become a success by one's own efforts. If Sam had a little encouragement, he could pull himself up by his bootstraps. Given a chance, I'm sure I can pull myself up by my own bootstraps.

Common Names:

Name	Pronounced	Usage
Ssanyu	-	Eastern African, Ganda
Alfred	['æ:frid]
Arttu	AHRT-too	Finnish
Rosalba	-	Italian
Fry	[frai]
Mali	-	Thai