straighten up and fly right
To organize oneself, begin acting in a serious and mature manner, and start performing the way in which others expect of one. If you don't start to straighten up and fly right soon, you're going to be out on your butt looking for a new job! I know you're anxious for your son to straighten up and fly right, but you've got to give it time. The program isn't going to correct his behavior overnight, after all.
straighten up and fly right
Fig. to improve one's behavior or attitude and perform better. (Originally referred to an airplane.) If you want to keep out of trouble, you had better straighten up and fly right. Straighten up and fly right or I will send you to the principal.
straighten up and fly right
in. to get serious and start behaving properly. Straighten up and fly right before you get into difficulty.