When Motivation Stays in Summer Mode
- Marissa Rosales
- Aug 11
- 2 min read
The school year is here, but your teen (or maybe even you) still seems mentally stuck in summer mode. Late mornings. Sluggish routines. Resistance to starting homework or projects. That feeling of “I’ll do it later” turns into “I never did it.”
It’s a common challenge, and it’s more about how the brain transitions than about laziness or bad habits.
Why Motivation Dips After Summer
Motivation doesn’t just switch on because the calendar says school has started. Executive functioning skills like planning, prioritizing, and time management often get rusty during long breaks. On top of that, sleep schedules are usually off, making it harder for the brain to focus and stay energized. And for some, the thought of another school year can feel overwhelming before it even begins, leading to a sense of burnout before they’ve even started.
How to Help Teens (and Yourself) Re-Engage
Start small. Break big tasks into smaller steps, like “set up your desk” or “write one assignment due date.”
Anchor daily routines. Reintroduce structure: regular sleep, set meal times, and dedicated “work blocks.”
Use accountability. A planner, shared calendar, or check-in routine creates consistency.
Focus on activation, not motivation. Don’t wait to feel ready — start with one small action to kick-start momentum.
Address the emotional side. Sometimes avoidance hides anxiety about expectations or performance.
When Motivation Feels Stuck
If this pattern is creating stress, family conflict, or school performance concerns, therapy or executive function coaching can help build skills and confidence — and reduce the emotional friction that comes with starting again.
The good news? Motivation is a skill you can grow — with support, structure, and the right tools.
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