Getting back together with your ex is not the worst idea ever--but it's usually not a good one either. The relationship you had may have ended for a reason; chances are that things did not end well the first time around and why would they be any better this time? Of course, there are always exceptions but most people don't see them that way. It feels more like an impulsive decision made during an emotional moment instead of taking time to think about what you feel is right. Some may actually want to get back together if only for another chance at love but the relationship might end up worse than the first time.
There are many reasons why getting back together with your ex is not a good idea. Some people may have changed for the better, some may have not. If you decide to get back together, there's no guarantee that things will work out and it might just lead to another breakup. The relationship may be built on lies and secrets which will only add more problems down the line. Trust issues are sure to arise and they can be difficult, if not impossible to resolve. Most of these issues were probably a factor in the breakup the first time around so what makes you think they won't resurface?
Another reason why getting back with your ex is usually not a good idea is just because it's easier to move on. You may have your ex in the back of your mind and you think that if things would only go back to how they were before then everything will be fine, but there's no guarantee that this relationship will work out many times over especially if you're both trying to salvage something instead of starting new. It can lead to a future full of problems so it isn't worth wasting your time if things aren't going to last forever anyway.
There are exceptions when getting back together with an ex could actually be the best decision ever made such as if you truly regret ending the relationship. People say "love conquers all" for a reason--you might want to give love another chance even though things may seem bleak. In some cases, both parties have made mistakes and there is a genuine desire to make things work. If this is the case, then it might be worth giving it a try but be aware that it won't be easy.
The bottom line is that getting back together with your ex should not be taken lightly--think about what led to the breakup in the first place and whether or not those issues can be resolved. If you're just looking for a reunion without actually working on the relationship, then it's not worth your time. Talk things over with your ex and see if there is any potential for making things better before jumping into anything. Getting back together with your ex should never be an impulsive decision.