hold up one's head (or hold one's head high)
Be confident or unashamed: under the circumstances I would find it impossible to hold my head up in the town...- He told me to hold my head high and look confident.
- You might not get to the top as quick as everyone who's treading on other people's fingers, but at least you'll be able to hold your head high and say ‘I got here by myself’.
- While I have tried in public to stay dignified, to hold up my head and to carry on with my job… in private I have been deeply upset and hurt and considerable damage has been inflicted on my personal life.
See parent entry: head