30 Other Ways to Say “Hanging in There” (With Examples)

When life feels heavy and the days drag on, you might hear someone say they’re hanging in there. But the phrase gets repetitive fast. That’s where 30 Other Ways to Say “Hanging in There” (With Examples) becomes incredibly useful. Whether you’re checking on a friend, comforting someone you care about, or keeping a conversation supportive and uplifting, having fresh phrases helps you sound more genuine and emotionally aware.

This guide gives you unique, friendly, and semantically rich alternatives that fit every mood—formal, casual, empathetic, or encouraging.

Another or Professional Way to Says“Hanging in There”

1. “Staying Strong Through It All”
2. “Taking It One Day at a Time”
3. “Doing My Best to Keep Going”
4. “Managing Things as Well as I Can”
5. “Keeping My Head Up Despite Everything”
6. “Holding On and Moving Forward”
7. “Trying to Stay Positive Through It”
8. “Finding Ways to Keep Going”
9. “Still Standing Even on Tough Days”
10. “Doing My Best to Get Through This”
11. “Working Through It Bit by Bit”
12. “Doing What I Can With What I Have”
13. “Staying Steady Even When Things Are Hard”
14. “Trying to Keep My Balance Through Everything”
15. “Taking Each Challenge as It Comes”
16. “Pushing Through the Tough Spots”
17. “Doing My Best to Stay Grounded”
18. “Trying Not to Get Overwhelmed”
19. “Hanging On and Hoping for the Best”
20. “Keeping Myself Together Day by Day”
21. “Staying Focused on What I Can Control”
22. “Doing My Best to Stay in Good Spirits”
23. “Trying to Keep My Energy Up”
24. “Still Fighting My Way Through It”
25. “Slowly Finding My Way Back to Myself”
26. “Trying to Stay Hopeful Through the Hard Days”
27. “Keeping My Strength Up as Much as I Can”
28. “Doing What I Need to Make It Through Today”
29. “Trying to Stay Calm and Level-Headed”
30. “Finding Strength in Small Wins”

1. “Taking It One Day at a Time”

Sometimes life becomes overwhelming, and you don’t want to overshare but still want to show honesty. Saying you’re “taking it one day at a time” expresses strength without pretending everything is perfect. I once used this phrase while juggling work stress and family responsibilities. Instead of feeling pressured to explain everything, it gave people just enough insight while keeping the conversation respectful. This phrase tells others you’re trying, growing, and managing life step-by-step. It’s authentic, warm, and emotionally grounded—perfect for someone coping with busy days, tough emotions, or unpredictable circumstances.

Example: “I’m taking it one day at a time, but I appreciate you checking in.”
Best Use: When you want to sound hopeful but realistic.

2. “Doing My Best to Keep Moving Forward”

There are moments when progress feels slow, but effort still matters. Using this phrase shows resilience even during difficult times. Imagine working on a goal while dealing with setbacks—you still push forward. When someone asks how you’re doing, this response highlights determination without sounding defeated. In my experience, this phrase gives people hope while reminding them that progress—even tiny progress—is valuable. It’s warm, thoughtful, and creates space for empathy. It’s also perfect when you want to reassure someone that you’re not giving up, even when the road feels heavy.

Example: “I’m doing my best to keep moving forward every day.”
Best Use: When you want to emphasize effort and momentum.

3. “Managing, One Step at a Time”

This phrase works beautifully when life feels complicated. It communicates that you’re coping without pretending things are perfect. I once used this during a stressful time organizing a move; everything felt chaotic, but breaking things into steps helped me stay grounded. The phrase is gentle, comforting, and signals emotional awareness. It’s a softer way to express that you’re still standing despite challenges. For someone who doesn’t want pity but appreciates understanding, this line hits the right balance.

Example: “I’m managing, one step at a time.”
Best Use: When you want a calm, steady, grounded response.

4. “Still Holding On and Staying Strong”

When someone asks how you’re doing during a tough season, this phrase adds a tone of strength and bravery. I remember using it when balancing recovery after an illness. It helped me show strength without minimizing the struggle. It’s also empowering—it tells the listener you’re not defeated. This phrase works especially well when you want to inspire confidence or show resilience. It’s both expressive and reassuring, making it a perfect phrase for personal and supportive conversations.

Example: “I’m still holding on and staying strong.”
Best Use: When you want to sound courageous and steady.

5. “Getting Through It Slowly but Surely”

Sometimes slow progress is still progress. During long-term projects or emotional healing, this phrase fits perfectly. It’s honest, practical, and balanced. I recall saying this during a months-long work deadline—it wasn’t easy, but inch by inch, things got done. The phrase helps set realistic expectations while highlighting perseverance. It’s great when you want to sound hopeful without pretending the process is simple.

Example: “I’m getting through it slowly but surely.”
Best Use: When your progress is gradual but consistent.

6. “Doing Alright, Just Taking Things as They Come”

Life often throws unexpected challenges our way. When things feel unpredictable, this phrase paints a picture of adaptability and calm acceptance. I used it during a hectic travel week filled with delays and surprises; it helped lighten the mood while showing I wasn’t overwhelmed. It’s friendly, casual, and reassuring. It helps you express that you’re coping without unnecessary detail.

Example: “I’m doing alright, just taking things as they come.”
Best Use: Casual conversations or quick check-ins.

7. “Surviving the Chaos as Best as I Can”

This phrase adds humor and relatability—perfect for stressful days. When work is demanding or schedules are wild, it makes the situation feel lighter. I once used this after a week full of back-to-back tasks; instead of sounding stressed, I added a playful tone to keep things positive. It shows resilience with a touch of humor.

Example: “Just surviving the chaos as best as I can!”
Best Use: When you want a light, humorous response.

8. “Keeping My Head Above Water”

This classic expression communicates that you’re under pressure but coping. I used it during a challenging financial month; it captured the moment perfectly without oversharing. People instantly understand the emotional picture—it’s relatable and expressive. It’s a great way to show resilience during heavy times.

Example: “I’m keeping my head above water.”
Best Use: Stressful or demanding life periods.

9. “Trying to Stay Positive Through Everything”

This phrase reveals emotional strength and a growth mindset. During a long recovery period, I used this phrase to remind myself—and others—that positivity matters. It conveys hope and determination. It’s beautifully supportive and encourages others to reflect the same energy back to you.

Example: “I’m trying to stay positive through everything.”
Best Use: When you want to emphasize optimism.

10. “Navigating Through the Tough Moments”

Life brings storms. This phrase tells someone you’re steering through them with intention. It’s thoughtful, mature, and emotionally aware. It’s perfect when you want to show that you’re actively handling your situation with strength.

Example: “I’m navigating through the tough moments.”
Best Use: Emotional or reflective conversations.

11. “Working Through It Bit by Bit”

There are times when you don’t have the energy for big leaps, but you still move forward in small ways. I remember a season when juggling deadlines felt impossible. Instead of forcing myself into major progress, I committed to tiny steps. Every task—no matter how small—felt like a quiet victory. When someone checked in, this phrase helped me express that I wasn’t giving up. It shows perseverance, honesty, and emotional awareness. Sometimes the only way to handle stress is piece by piece, and this phrase captures that truth without sounding defeated.

Example: “I’m working through it bit by bit.”
Best Use: When progress is slow but intentional.

12. “Doing What I Can With What I Have”

Life doesn’t always give you perfect conditions. But strength comes from using what’s available. During a tough financial period, this phrase helped me maintain dignity and optimism. It’s a powerful way to express humility and resilience. It acknowledges limitations but shows you haven’t stopped trying. People respect honesty like this—it feels grounded and real. This phrase works beautifully in conversations where you’re trying to stay positive while dealing with real challenges. It reminds others that you’re still showing up, even when things aren’t ideal.

Example: “I’m doing what I can with what I have.”
Best Use: When you want to highlight effort despite limited resources.

13. “Staying Steady Even When Things Are Hard”

Some seasons require emotional steadiness more than anything. This phrase reflects inner strength and maturity. I used it during a stressful time supporting a friend in crisis while managing my own life. Even though things weren’t easy, maintaining emotional stability helped me stay grounded. This phrase communicates that you’re handling things with grace, even when the circumstances are shaky. It’s comforting, encouraging, and deeply human.

Example: “I’m staying steady even when things are hard.”
Best Use: When you want to sound balanced and composed.

14. “Trying to Keep My Balance Through Everything”

Life often feels like a balancing act—work, school, relationships, health. During a busy month full of overlapping commitments, this phrase described my situation perfectly. It’s relatable and honest. It shows that you’re trying to stay centered while juggling multiple tasks. People immediately understand the emotional weight behind it. This phrase works well when you want to acknowledge stress without dramatizing it.

Example: “I’m trying to keep my balance through everything.”
Best Use: When dealing with multiple challenges at once.

15. “Taking Each Challenge as It Comes”

Instead of feeling overwhelmed by everything at once, this phrase shows calm acceptance. During a period filled with unpredictable changes, this line helped me stay grounded. It communicates that you’re focusing on the present instead of worrying about the entire mountain ahead. It’s practical, simple, and emotionally intelligent. It’s a great alternative when you don’t want sympathy but want to express resilience.

Example: “I’m taking each challenge as it comes.”
Best Use: When handling a series of difficulties.

16. “Pushing Through the Tough Spots”

When you want to highlight determination, this phrase works beautifully. I used it during intense exam preparation while dealing with burnout. It expresses grit, courage, and the refusal to quit. People appreciate this honesty—it shows strength without pretending the process is easy. It’s especially useful when you’re dealing with temporary stress and want others to know you’re still fighting.

Example: “I’m pushing through the tough spots.”
Best Use: When you’re fighting through short-term struggles.

Also Read This: 30 Other Ways to Say “Sit Back and Relax” (With Examples)

17. “Doing My Best to Stay Grounded”

Staying emotionally grounded is crucial during chaotic times. This phrase helps you communicate calmness. I used it during a long period of uncertainty; grounding practices helped me feel centered. Saying this tells someone you’re working on emotional stability. It makes you sound thoughtful and self-aware. It’s gentle, comforting, and full of emotional clarity.

Example: “I’m doing my best to stay grounded.”
Best Use: When focusing on emotional well-being.

18. “Trying Not to Get Overwhelmed”

We all reach moments where life feels heavy. This phrase is honest and relatable. I once used it during a demanding project when everything felt urgent. It communicated my emotional state without sounding negative. People appreciate vulnerability when it’s expressed with balance. It’s a great phrase for showing humanity without sounding defeated.

Example: “I’m trying not to get overwhelmed.”
Best Use: When workload or emotions feel heavy.

19. “Hanging On and Hoping for the Best”

This phrase combines honesty with optimism. It’s perfect when you’re trying to stay hopeful even in uncertain situations. I used it during a medical waiting period when fear and hope were competing. It allowed me to be transparent without sinking into negativity. This line gives people an invitation to support you gently.

Example: “I’m hanging on and hoping for the best.”
Best Use: When facing uncertain outcomes.

20. “Keeping Myself Together Day by Day”

Sometimes stability is achieved one day at a time. I used this phrase during a season of emotional exhaustion when small victories mattered. It communicates vulnerability, strength, and persistence. It resonates deeply with people who know what it feels like to hold themselves together during difficult chapters. It’s honest but hopeful.

Example: “I’m keeping myself together day by day.”
Best Use: Emotional or supportive conversations.

21. “Staying Focused on What I Can Control”

I used this phrase often during a chaotic work period filled with changes I couldn’t influence. It helped me maintain clarity and stay productive. This line shows maturity and emotional intelligence. It helps you communicate that you’re not wasting energy on things outside your control. It’s empowering and practical—perfect when someone asks about your mindset during tough times.

Example: “I’m staying focused on what I can control.”
Best Use: When practicing mindfulness and control.

22. “Doing My Best to Stay in Good Spirits”

Sometimes positivity doesn’t come naturally, but effort matters. I used this phrase during a lonely season when I was trying my best to stay upbeat. It shows optimism without pretending everything is perfect. It’s encouraging and warm—perfect for someone who wants to sound hopeful and emotionally aware.

Example: “I’m doing my best to stay in good spirits.”
Best Use: When maintaining a positive outlook.

23. “Trying to Keep My Energy Up”

During burnout or exhaustion, this phrase helps you express how you’re doing without going into detail. I used this during an intense season of back-to-back commitments. It captures the struggle while still sounding composed and optimistic. It’s a great choice when you’re dealing with fatigue or emotional drain.

Example: “I’m trying to keep my energy up.”
Best Use: When tired but pushing forward.

24. “Still Fighting My Way Through It”

This line sounds strong and determined. I used it during moments when I felt pushed to my limits, but I refused to give up. It communicates resilience and grit. People respond well to this phrase because it shows courage in real time. It’s ideal when you want to show strength even when things are heavy.

Example: “I’m still fighting my way through it.”
Best Use: For tough personal battles.

25. “Slowly Finding My Way Back to Myself”

This phrase is perfect when dealing with emotional healing or personal growth. I used it after a long period of burnout, and it felt deeply true. It communicates self-awareness, healing, and gentle progress. It’s a beautiful, vulnerable phrase that shows you’re reconnecting with your identity and peace.

Example: “I’m slowly finding my way back to myself.”
Best Use: Emotional healing and self-growth conversations.

26. “Trying to Stay Hopeful Through the Hard Days”

Hope is powerful, especially during seasons of struggle. I used this phrase when dealing with uncertainty—it kept me focused on light instead of darkness. It communicates emotional honesty with a positive tone. People appreciate this kind of vulnerability because it makes them feel connected.

Example: “I’m trying to stay hopeful through the hard days.”
Best Use: When you want to sound gentle yet hopeful.

27. “Keeping My Strength Up as Much as I Can”

Sometimes strength isn’t loud—it’s quiet and steady. I used this phrase during a stressful family season when I felt drained. It communicates that you’re doing your best, even if it’s difficult. It makes you sound honest and strong without pretending to be perfect.

Example: “I’m keeping my strength up as much as I can.”
Best Use: When emotionally or physically drained.

28. “Doing What I Need to Make It Through Today”

This phrase expresses absolute honesty. It’s perfect for days when getting through the day is the main goal. I used it during a difficult transition period, and it helped me protect my boundaries. It’s practical, self-aware, and emotionally clear.

Example: “I’m doing what I need to make it through today.”
Best Use: When prioritizing self-care.

29. “Trying to Stay Calm and Level-Headed”

Emotional control is important in stressful moments. I used this phrase while handling a complicated crisis at work. It communicated that I was composed despite pressure. It sounds mature, stable, and confident—qualities people admire.

Example: “I’m trying to stay calm and level-headed.”
Best Use: High-pressure or conflict situations.

30. “Finding Strength in Small Wins”

Small victories carry big meaning. During a long, exhausting project, I celebrated every tiny success. This phrase communicates gratitude, perspective, and emotional strength. It encourages others to appreciate small progress too. It’s uplifting and reflective.

Example: “I’m finding strength in small wins.”
Best Use: Growth, motivation, and self-improvement conversations.

Conclusion

Finding 30 Other Ways to Say “Hanging in There” (With Examples) gives you emotional variety, stronger communication skills, and more meaningful ways to connect with others. Each phrase helps you express resilience, honesty, and hope. Whether you’re facing emotional challenges, daily stress, or big transitions, these alternatives help you share your feelings with clarity and compassion. Use them in conversations, texts, emails, or supportive messages to express yourself more authentically while keeping your tone uplifting.

FAQs

1. Why should I use alternatives to “hanging in there”?

Because it helps you communicate more clearly, avoid repetition, and express emotions more authentically.

2. Are these phrases formal or casual?

They work in both settings—choose based on your situation.

3. Can I use these phrases in professional communication?

Yes, many of them are workplace-friendly and emotionally appropriate.

4. Do these alternatives sound more supportive?

Absolutely. Most of them show empathy and emotional intelligence.

5. Do these phrases help in text conversations?

Yes—each phrase is short, relatable, and easy to use in chats or messages.