Persevere through a difficult situation; don't give up despite challenges or hardship. Continue trying even when things are tough.
This phrase gained popularity in the 1970s, often associated with the famous motivational poster featuring a kitten hanging from a branch. However, the concept of 'hanging on' as persistence dates back much earlier, rooted in the physical act of maintaining grip under stress.
The famous kitten poster actually helped cement this phrase in popular culture, but it also sparked debates about toxic positivity versus genuine encouragement. The image of literally hanging on creates a visceral understanding of the effort required to persevere through difficult times.
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