I feel like I'm going through the motions

I feel the same way. It's like the gym. You're on a plateau. Without the obvious forward movement, it's like swimming in one of those little pools that generates the current or running on a treadmill. You're not getting anywhere, but you're making good time.

How do you give that person the chance and be true to them about that chance, how do you get excited again.

Two different issues. But if the foregoing discussion is to be accepted, then you'll just "feel" it.

Which isn't much of an answer, is it?

Which was the point of the exploration in the first place.

What goes up must come down
spinning wheel got to go round
Talking about your troubles it's a crying sin
Ride a painted pony
Let the spinning wheel spin.