When Motivation Fades: Searching for the Truth That Sets Us Free

From personal experience, I know that for some of us, there are days when it’s genuinely hard to get out of bed. I’m very grateful to have my children—who need to be fed, entertained, taught the Lord’s ways, and protected each day. So even when I lack motivation, I still have the responsibility. I often find myself getting up not because I feel inspired, but because I must—it’s not optional.

Still, this isn’t the kind of life I want to live every day, nor is it the example I want my children to grow up watching. I know each person is different, and to be honest, some days I can’t tell if I have a melancholic personality, a deeper emotional or spiritual struggle caused by unconfessed sin, a test from the Lord, or simply laziness—which, let’s not forget, is also a form of sin. In today’s world, people often label it “procrastination” to make it sound softer or more acceptable.

On those days, I try everything I can:
I start by confessing any sins I’m aware of—especially when I’m not walking in the fruits of the Spirit, and my husband gently points it out. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control—when those are missing, I know something is off.

But sometimes I have to go deeper. I ask God honestly, “Search my heart. Is there something I’m not seeing? Is there a hidden sin blocking my energy and motivation?” Because it’s not just tiredness—I’m talking about that frustrating emptiness, that lack of energy to accomplish the tasks I’ve set for myself, and not understanding why it’s happening.

Many people choose therapy, coaching, or even medication. I’ve tried all of these throughout different seasons of my life. I’m not opposed to them entirely, and when things feel really out of balance, I go back and give them another chance. But the truth is, none of them ever fixed the root. They only helped manage the symptoms. And honestly, I’m not interested in just managing symptoms. That’s why I’ve always had some resistance to these solutions—especially as someone who comes from a lineage with traditional knowledge and natural approaches to healing.

So what should we do?

When we have a fever, it’s the body’s way of telling us something is wrong. I believe a lack of motivation works the same way—it’s a signal that something deeper might be out of alignment. Sometimes what we need is more rest. Other times, extra vitamins or nutritional support. And often, we just need time—because no two people face a lack of motivation for the exact same reasons.

That’s why it’s worth pausing and asking real questions, instead of rushing to cover the feeling. Ask yourself, “What is my body or soul trying to tell me?”

Example: Last month, I found myself overwhelmed with daily chores, homeschooling, and trying to grow my online presence. I was exhausted and bitter. I prayed, journaled, and eventually realized I was placing my value in productivity instead of resting in God’s love. That recognition alone brought so much peace—and slowly, my energy began returning.

In the end, my first step is always this: search for the truth. The Bible says the truth sets us free. Whether it’s easy to face or not, I’d rather live in that truth than remain stuck in confusion. That’s the only way I’ve ever found lasting freedom from this cycle of tiredness and lack of motivation.

Following along with me:

One activity I’ve been practicing daily — and that has helped me a lot — is reading the Word of God at least once a day. To stay consistent, what has worked for me is having a WhatsApp group with at least one family member who also wants to pursue this purpose. This companionship creates mutual accountability and encouragement.

Dayane Olson

Reading the Word transforms our mindset. It can shift the focus of our thoughts, which are sometimes stuck on things that drag us down. Moreover, it combats the lies of the enemy — those that paralyze us, confuse us, and try to make us give up. The only way to resist him is the way Jesus did: with the Word of God, not just with opinions or human strength.

Today’s challenge: Read one chapter of the Bible and send a verse that spoke to you to someone you trust. Pray for that Word to become alive in your heart.