My guess is that this came into use either when folks started stretching out the time to take the steps or with raise-the-bottom drunks who got a little sobriety under their belts and might be easily distracted from the spiritual path.
I would not suggest to a sponsee that she stay with an abusive partner because separation or divorce is a "major change," or that getting a job might endanger sobriety. I do encourage taking the steps and seeing exactly what she's made of before she jumps into a committed relationship--or a friends-with-benefits relationship. Maybe she's not that kind of girl, and then she's got another fourth step entry and a sticky situation to get out of (no pun intended). I know a couple who were two years sober and their children were still in the care of others because, "We need to focus on our sobriety." ********.
I personally don't like the expression. It's too often twisted and used as a justification for inaction.
Peace & Love,
Sugah