Micawber principle

noun2

1. •
   The claim that financial surplus is success and debt is failure.

   • The Micawber principle—it is not the level of income and outgo but their relationship that matters—is essential to budgeting. — 1992
2. •
   The claim that something good will turn up, especially when used to justify optimism.

   • Acting on the Micawber principle of always expecting 'something to turn up,' he is ever on the watch, and the way that at times 'he gets to a catch' is wonderful. — 1863