stand on (one's) own (two) feet
To be strong and independent; to not need the help, guidance, or resources of another person. He never left home after high school, so he never learned to stand on his own two feet. You're a talented programmer, and you could have a lot of influence here if you stood on your own feet a bit more.
stand on one's (own) two feet
to act in an independent and forthright manner. I can stand on my own two feet without any help from you! Dave will be better off when he gets a job and can stand on his own feet.