Understanding Low Motivation and Energy: Supporting Individualized Growth at Parents’ Foundation

One of the most common questions we hear during the inquiry and transition process at Parents’ Foundation is: What do you do when someone struggles with low motivation and energy?

Our answer is simple: we don’t give up.

We recognize that every individual experiences motivation, energy, and engagement differently. Because of that, we know there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to care or support. What works for one person may not work for another, and that understanding is central to how we operate.

Over the years, we’ve supported many individuals who come through our doors with varying levels of motivation. What consistently matters most is taking the time to truly get to know each person, what matters to them, what feels overwhelming, and what might begin to spark engagement.

For some residents, motivation grows through structure and reinforcement, such as reward systems or point-based goals where completing tasks leads to meaningful incentives at the end of the week. For others, it may be more effective to focus on consistency and presence, daily check-ins, ongoing invitations to participate, and gentle encouragement even after initial refusal.

Importantly, a “no” does not mean disengagement should stop. Often, it simply means the timing or approach needs to shift. Continued invitation, patience, and an inclusive presence can make a meaningful difference over time. We have seen firsthand that what once was a “no” can eventually become a “yes” when trust and consistency are built.

A guiding question we often use is: What does support look like to you?

For some individuals, support may mean having someone who listens without judgment. For others, it may look like receiving advice, spending time in nature, going for a walk, or simply having space to reset. The important part is recognizing that support is not static; it can and should adapt based on what someone is experiencing in the moment.

Residents are also active participants in their own goal planning. Interventions are created with them, not for them. This collaboration helps ensure that goals are meaningful, realistic, and aligned with the individual’s personal vision for growth.

We also emphasize the importance of breaking down larger goals into smaller, more manageable steps. We often describe this as an umbrella concept: the larger goal represents the umbrella, while the smaller steps, sometimes overlooked or underestimated, are what support progress underneath it. Even when motivation feels low, these smaller actions matter. They are often the foundation that allows someone to eventually reach and maintain their larger goals.

At the core of our work is a belief in persistence, individualized support, and the understanding that progress does not always look linear. Every step forward, no matter how small, has value.