Pulling yourself up by your boot straps.

Posted by Bluebaron on December 01, 1999

Enough with the computer "hoo-ha"...the phrase long predates computers....originally refers to the effort required to pull on a tight fitting pair of boots (usually grunting and straining). Alludes to achieving success by strenous mental (or physical)application to improve one's socio-economic position.

• Pulling yourself up by your boot straps. Raymond Archer 12/01/99