How to Stay Motivated When You Feel Like Giving Up

Have you ever started a goal with excitement and fire in your heart—only to hit a wall weeks (or even days) later? Maybe you were full of desire and hope when you started, but now you’re wondering if it’s even worth continuing. If you’re in that space right now, let me gently remind you: you’re not alone, and this isn’t the end of your journey.

As a life coach, I’ve walked with many women who hit that same wall—and I’ve hit it myself more times than I can count. That’s why today we’re diving deep into how to stay motivated when you feel like giving up. Because your calling and your goals are too important to quit on. There is a way forward that respects both your struggles and your dreams.

1. Reconnect With Your Why

When motivation fades, the first place to look is your “why.” Why did you begin this journey? What dream stirred in your heart? What prayer launched you into action? Reconnecting with your why helps you refocus and gives you the desire to keep going when things get hard.

Jesus didn’t promise the journey would be easy, but He did promise to be with us every step of the way. Galatians 6:9 reminds us, “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.”

If the Lord gave you the vision, He will also provide the strength for you to see it through.

2. Break It Down to Build It Up

Overwhelm is a motivation killer. When the goal feels too big, it’s easy to feel paralyzed. The solution? Break it down. Set mini-milestones that feel achievable and celebrate each step.

For example, instead of saying, “I want to write a book,” start with “I’ll write 300 words today.” Instead of “I want to lose 20 pounds,” focus on nourishing your body with one healthy meal at a time.

And if you’re feeling stuck or scattered, I created a free tool called Goal Foundation to help you get clear on your why, create a sustainable plan, and build momentum from the inside out. You can get it for free when you sign up here.

3. Speak Life—Even When You Don’t Feel It

Your words are powerful. If you constantly say, “This is too hard,” your mind and body will start believing it. But when you declare truth over your situation—even when it doesn’t feel true—you invite God’s strength into your weakness.

Say it out loud:
“God gave me this desire, and He will equip me to achieve my goal.”
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
“I am not quitting—I’m pressing forward by faith.”

Sometimes the motivation doesn’t come before the action—it comes through the action of declaring truth.

4. Refuel With Rest, Not Regret

You don’t have to hustle to prove your worth. You’re allowed to rest. Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is take a nap, go for a walk, or simply pause and breathe.

Rest isn’t quitting—it’s refueling. And when your soul and mind are rested, your motivation returns with fresh clarity. Don’t confuse fatigue with failure. Even Jesus took time to withdraw and rest (Luke 5:16). So give yourself grace and permission to breathe.

5. Surround Yourself With Purpose-Driven People

When your motivation is low, your circle matters more than ever. Surround yourself with people who see your potential, speak life into your vision, and remind you who you are in Christ.

And I want to be one of those people for you. If you’re reading this and need encouragement, coaching, or just someone to walk with you, I’m here. Whether through these blog posts or one-on-one coaching, it’s my honor to help you keep going.

6. Be Consistent, Not Perfect

Perfection is an illusion. You don’t need perfect days—you need persistence. Every small act of obedience matters. It’s not about how fast you move, but that you keep moving.

The truth is, how to stay motivated when you feel like giving up isn’t about waiting for the perfect conditions—it’s about choosing to keep showing up, even in the hard moments. Progress happens when you stay committed, even when you don’t feel 100% ready.

Final Encouragement: You’re Stronger Than You Think

Don’t quit now. You are closer than you realize. The breakthrough could be just beyond the moment you feel like giving up. Stay planted. Keep praying. Keep showing up.

God is faithful to finish what He started in you.

And if you haven’t already, make sure to grab your free copy of the Goal Foundation—a simple, powerful tool to help you build your goals on a foundation of faith, clarity, and action. It’s my gift to you when you sign up here.

You’ve got this. And more importantly—God’s got you.