Staying Motivated When You Feel Like Giving Up

Welcome to the Glow Up Guide Collective, the ultimate haven for millennial women ready to step into their power, break through self-doubt, and evolve into the best versions of themselves. I'm Morgan Bruner, your personal growth bestie and self-improvement coach, here to help you shift your mindset, boost your confidence, and light up your life. If you're tired of playing small and are ready to truly embody your most authentic and thriving self, then you're in the right place. So, cozy up with your favorite drink as we dive into today's soul-fueling conversation on motivation.

The Reality of Fading Motivation

Have you ever felt super excited about a goal, but after a few weeks—or even days—your enthusiasm fades away? Whether it's fitness aspirations, dreams of starting a business, or simply building better habits, staying motivated can be challenging. You might feel like you're spiraling, questioning why you can't stay on track: "Why can't I stay motivated? What's wrong with me?" I've been there, and today I'm here to share a revelation with you: Motivation isn't something you have; it’s something you create.

The Motivation Cycle

Losing motivation is completely normal. The issue isn't that you're lazy or broken. The issue lies in expecting ourselves to maintain a constant high-vibe hustle in the ebb and flow of real life, where highs and lows are part of being human. Here's what the typical motivation cycle looks like:

You start something new and exciting.

You make some progress; it feels doable.

Then life happens—a challenge arises, results slow down, or your energy dips.

Motivation starts fading.

Cue the guilt—“Ugh, I'm failing again.”

Sounds familiar? The truth is, motivation is a mood, not a strategy. And moods aren't reliable enough to build the life of your dreams. Instead of relying on motivation, we need to understand how to harness our minds and create systems that keep us going even when motivation wanes.

Turning Action into Motivation

Let me drop a truth bomb that changed my entire mindset: Motivation doesn’t come before action; action creates motivation. While we wait for motivation to strike, it typically shows up after you’ve already begun. Ever notice how one productive action leads to another? That’s momentum, and action fuels motivation. So, instead of asking, “How do I get motivated?” ask, “What’s the smallest action I can take right now to create some momentum?”

Five Ways to Stay Motivated

1. Identify Your Why

Establish the deeper reason behind your goals. It's not just about losing weight or growing a business. Ask yourself, "What will this change give me? How will my life feel when I achieve it?" Your "why" should give you goosebumps and bring tears to your eyes—this is when you know it's real.

2. Create a Personalized Routine

Not every routine you see online will fit your life. Find what works for your current season, whether it's 10 minutes of journaling in the morning, a brisk walk at lunch, or weekly goal check-ins. Consistency over aesthetics always.

3. The Five-Minute Rule

When your brain screams, “I don’t feel like it,” whisper back, “just five minutes.” Often, once you start, you'll keep going. And even if you don’t, showing up for five minutes is still progress.

4. Find Accountability and Support

You don’t have to do it alone. Whether it’s texting a friend, sharing your goal on social media, or joining a community like the Glow Up Guide Collective, being seen and supported lightens the journey.

5. Focus on Progress, Not Perfection

Perfect isn’t the aim—aligned progress is. Some days it’s ticking off every task on your list, other days it’s brushing your teeth. Whatever the step, it all counts.

Journal Prompts for When Motivation Fades

• What’s one thing I can do today to bring me closer to my goal, even just a little bit?

• How will it feel once I’m on the other side of this season? Reflect deeply—how will your body, mind, and emotions feel?

• What am I proud of myself for doing lately, even if it felt small?

• What advice would I give my best friend if she were in my shoes?

My Personal Story

Motivation didn’t come easily when I left a toxic, abusive marriage. It was a time of fear, uncertainty, and loneliness. Yet, I knew my future and my daughter’s depended on taking that first precarious step, even when I didn’t feel ready or motivated. Through small steps, tiny conversations, and breaths taken one at a time, I found courage. You don’t need to have it all figured out, nor do you need to feel ready. You just need to be brave enough to take that next step.

Conclusion

Remember, motivation doesn’t show up first you do. Keep showing up and believe in yourself. I am so proud of you. Let this conversation ignite a fire in your soul. Screenshot this episode, share it, and tag me @Glowupguidecollective . Tell me one small action you’re taking this week, even if motivation is nowhere to be found. If you haven’t done so yet, be sure to follow the show for more doses of inspiration. Keep growing, glowing, and striving to become the best version of yourself, my girl. You’ve got this.