How Hormones Hijack Motivation And How To Get It Back episode artwork

EPISODE · Mar 9, 2026 · 25 MIN

How Hormones Hijack Motivation And How To Get It Back

from The Ageless and Awesome Podcast · host Susie Garden

What if your missing motivation isn’t a mindset problem but a hormone story your brain is trying to tell? In this week's episode I dive into how perimenopause impacts dopamine and cortisol, why tasks suddenly feel heavier, and how small, targeted changes can switch your drive back on without relying on willpower. I open up about nearly walking away from my practice, the fear that my spark was gone for good, and the science-based steps that brought it roaring back.I break down the oestrogen–dopamine link and how fluctuating hormones can mute reward, fuel procrastination, and make starting the hardest part. Then I tackle cortisol and survival mode—why your brain seeks short-term relief when energy is low—and how that explains the “why bother” spiral. From there, I move into solutions that stabilise physiology: protein-forward breakfasts to build neurotransmitters and steady blood sugar, morning light to anchor your body clock, and strength training to increase dopamine sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and restore that “let’s do this” feeling.Sleep gets a full, honest look, including the hidden costs of that nightly glass of wine. You’ll learn simple wind-down strategies, the power of consistency, and why even modest improvements change your brain’s readiness to act. We wrap with practical nervous system tools—breath, nature, clearer priorities, and saying no—so your body feels safe enough to pursue long-term goals again. If you’ve been judging yourself for not being as driven as you used to be, this conversation offers a kinder frame and a concrete path forward.Ready to feel like yourself again? Book a free Peri Weight Loss Assessment via the link in the show notes, subscribe for new episodes each Tuesday, and leave a quick review to help more women find this show. What small change will you start today?Send me a text!Are you a woman feeling stressed, flat and experiencing the challenges of perimenopause or menopause?It’s time to reclaim your youthful energy, radiance and self-assurance (and your ideal weight).I’m here to help with my proven method.Here's how I can support you -1. Hit your health and wellbeing goals this year, balance your hormones and lose weight with your own personalised protocol, based on your body's biochemistry. Sounds awesome right!! Book a free 30 minute Peri Weight Loss Assessment with me so we can discuss your health and wellbeing goals and also see how I might be able to support you. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Book your call here. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠2. Follow me on Instagram and Facebook - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@the.perimenopause.path3. Book your appt package at The Perimenopause Path Clinic here. Or if you'd like a single appt, book here.

What if your missing motivation isn’t a mindset problem but a hormone story your brain is trying to tell? In this week's episode I dive into how perimenopause impacts dopamine and cortisol, why tasks suddenly feel heavier, and how small, targeted changes can switch your drive back on without relying on willpower. I open up about nearly walking away from my practice, the fear that my spark was gone for good, and the science-based steps that brought it roaring back. I break down the oestrogen–...

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How Hormones Hijack Motivation And How To Get It Back

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This episode was published on March 9, 2026.

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What if your missing motivation isn’t a mindset problem but a hormone story your brain is trying to tell? In this week's episode I dive into how perimenopause impacts dopamine and cortisol, why tasks suddenly feel heavier, and how small, targeted...

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