Fall off the wagon is a colloquial expression that originates from the practice of a recovering alcoholic or drug addict succumbing to their addiction after a period of sobriety. The phrase describes the act of relapsing or returning to one's previous addictive behaviors, usually after a period of abstinence or self-control.
Metaphorically, it has come to signify a person's failure to maintain self-control or discipline in any aspect of their life, not just related to substance abuse. It is often used to describe instances where someone reverts to old habits, vices, or destructive behaviors that they had previously managed to overcome.
The phrase "fall off the wagon" can be extended to various situations, such as someone abandoning a diet and indulging in unhealthy eating habits, neglecting a fitness routine after consistent exercise, or abandoning a commitment to a healthier lifestyle.
When someone "falls off the wagon," it usually implies a setback in their personal growth, resolve, or determination to improve themselves. It is usually accompanied by a sense of disappointment, regret, and frustration, both for the individual themselves and those who may be supporting or relying on them.
Overall, "fall off the wagon" is a metaphorical expression that describes the act of reverting to previous negative behaviors or habits, emphasizing a lack of self-control or discipline that may hinder personal progress or growth.
