Depends if you ride for commute (as in you need to get from point A to B) or for recreation (bike for couple of hours)
If it’s recreation it’s fine to cut down on distance and tire yourself out. Treat it like gym training. If you aren’t tired, it wasn’t good training. Maybe plan a shorter trip but a more intense one.
I found that after couple of months of daily commuting my speeds improved and I could finally go up that steep hill without stopping.
Good luck and stay safe!
Finally!!!