# Why Change Is Hard When You're Exhausted Why is it so difficult to take new steps when you're drained? - **Source:** [Marie Forleo](https://brifing.si/source/ffee316c-0b5b-4b14-8b95-fd75373690b8) - **Published:** 2026-07-22 - **Topic:** [Career Growth](https://brifing.si/c/growth) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/c7a77f2c-eb98-4dbd-9030-d21676ef21d0 ## The Relationship Between Fatigue and Change Fatigue depletes both physical and mental energy. In this state, trying something new or changing habits becomes much harder. The brain and body are programmed to maintain the status quo. ## Depletion of Energy Resources Fatigue weakens decision-making and focus abilities. This makes it harder to find the motivation needed for change. Lack of energy pushes a person into a passive state, making action difficult. ## The Brain's Protective Mode When tired, the brain switches to 'protective mode' to conserve energy. This makes adopting new behaviors harder as the brain avoids unknown and energy-demanding processes. ## The Role of Motivation Motivation is a critical factor for change. However, fatigue lowers motivation and pushes a person into inactivity. Therefore, setting small and achievable goals is important. ## The Power of Small Steps When exhausted, taking small steps is more effective than aiming for big changes. This preserves energy while enabling progress. For example, adding a small novelty to the daily routine can make a difference. ## Strategies for Change To create change when tired, it's essential to boost energy first. When basic needs like sleep, nutrition, and rest are met, the motivation and focus needed for change become easier to achieve. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.youtube.com/shorts/tAPBqlPjH2Y — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._