Take the wind out of your sails

The phrase "take the wind out of your sails" is an idiom that means to deflate or diminish someone's excitement, enthusiasm, or confidence, usually by undermining their achievements, ideas, or plans. It is often used to describe an action or statement that disheartens or discourages someone and steals their motivation or momentum. The metaphorical reference comes from sailing, where having wind in the sails allows a ship to move swiftly and efficiently. Removing this wind would render the ship immobile or sluggish.