How do you go from practice to pointless? Then from pointless to playing? And suddenly feel the guilt for not practicing?

I’ve been playing piano for over a year. That’s after a couple time outs of years. I took lessons from 5-16 then a music major in my 40s. In between raising kids, jobs, and rebellion of the terror of the piano (mom issues, not teachers).

I thought I had it figured out. Playing is fun. And I’ve finally reached near where I was when I quit last time. But suddenly I’m not seeing improvement. I picked up Learn Faster, Perform Better by Molly Gebrian. Now I find I don’t want to play anymore. My rebel nature is back full force. That is not to say she is wrong.  Practicing segments 10 times right will perfect the piece. But I want to play music, enjoy music.

Any ideas?