mends one's ways
Turns over leaf
To mend one's ways is to correct bad behavior or habits, reforming after a period of wrongdoing or irresponsibility.
The phrase implies deliberate self-improvement: After his arrest, he finally mended his ways.
Someone who mends their ways abandons harmful patterns and commits to acting better.
- turning over a new leafResolving to improve oneself
- self-improvementEnhancing oneself deliberately
- clean slateRecord wiped clear
- fresh startOpportunity to restart unburdened
- integrityMoral soundness and consistency
moral compass · repentance · making amends · growth · redemption · conscience · reform · personal growth · renewal · second chance · humility · correction · introspection · accountability · self-awareness · atonement · morality · discipline
moral/behavioral trajectory
mends one's waysgoes astray
Departs from correctness
falls from grace · backslides · relapses · deteriorates · degenerates