Pick up the pieces Definition 1 of 2Pro Tip 1/3Emotional Recovery Used when discussing overcoming emotional distress or hardship. She's been trying to pick up the pieces after the divorce. Pro Tip 2/3Post-Trauma Rebuild Refers to the phase of rebuilding life after a traumatic event like a disaster. The community is picking up the pieces following the flood. Pro Tip 3/3Continuation Notion Implies that despite disruptions, life or a process will continue. Despite the market crash, investors are picking up the pieces and moving forward.