Expressions About Hope, Optimism and Improvement

• “When you’re at the end of your rope, tie a knot and hold on.”
  
• — Theodore Roosevelt (1858 - 1919),  26th president of the United States

Because we all get sick or suffer from some sort of emotional or physical adversity no matter our status in life, talking about hope and recovery is something we frequently do. There will also be lots of moments when we need to comfort friends and loved ones who are experiencing some setbacks.  Here’s a look at some common idioms around the topic of hope, being positive or about things getting better.
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1. Things are looking up
When someone says "things are looking up," they mean that the situation is improving. This idiom is often used after a period of difficulty, suggesting that better times are on the horizon.
Example: "After a tough year, things are finally looking up for the company."

2. To have come a long way
If you say that someone has come a long way, it means that they have made a lot of progress compared to when they first started. It could also mean that they have become really successful. 
Example: "From her beginnings just selling cookies to neighbors from her small kitchen, to now operating five bakeries in different cities, she has indeed come a long way."

3. To be back on one's feet
A person who gets back on their feet becomes healthy again after an illness or injury, especially if they are able to walk again or just physically able to move around. This expression can also be used to talk about recoveries in general, such as that of the economy or an industry.  
Example: "Grandma can't wait to get back on her feet and tending to her vegetable garden after a bout with pneumonia."

4. To turn the corner
"To turn the corner" means to pass a critical point in a process and begin to improve. It suggests that the worst is over and things will get better.
Example: "After the surgery, she’s finally turning the corner and starting to feel better."

5. To be on the mend
This idiom is more often used when talking about health but it can be applied to any situation that is improving after a setback. It implies a gradual process of recovery.
Example: "He’s been on the mend since the accident and hopes to be back at work soon."

6. To get one's groove back
This means to start to be happy, confident, or moving forward again after a difficult period. 
Example: "I am slowly getting my groove back and starting again after having to close my business last year."

7. To look on the bright side
Encouraging someone to "look on the bright side" means advising them to focus on the positive aspects of a situation rather than the negatives.
Example: "I know the vacation was canceled, but look on the bright side: we can save money for a bigger trip next year."

8.  To see the light at the end of the tunnel
This idiom suggests that a difficult or unpleasant situation is nearing an end, and that some improvement is expected to happen soon. It's like seeing a distant light after being in a dark tunnel, providing hope that the hard times will soon be over.
Example: "After months of recovery and therapy, she finally sees the light at the end of the tunnel."

9. ​"Hang in there"
To "hang in there" means to remain persistent despite difficult circumstances. This expression is said by itself as a form of encouragement to tell someone not to give up. 
Example: "The first few weeks on the job will be challenging but hang in there, keep learning how things are done, and you'll soon get more confident."
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10. On the up and up
When something is "on the up and up," it means it is steadily improving or becoming more successful. It’s often used in the context of business or personal progress.
Example: "Tourism is on the up and up, helping local restaurants and hotels to recover from the pandemic."

11. ​A silver lining
A "silver lining" refers to a positive aspect of a bad situation. This idiom encourages people to find something good even when experiencing something difficult.
Example: "Losing the job was hard, but the silver lining is that he now has time to pursue his passion."

These idioms can add color to our language and also serve as reminders to stay hopeful and positive. Whether we’re facing personal challenges or professional setbacks, these expressions help us voice out the belief that better days are ahead. So the next time you find yourself or someone else in need of a little optimism, try out these idioms and share some positivity.