Reading all of this, sounds to me like you're not really the kind of person suited for distance learning (which is ok since this is not for everyone) and secondly I have the impression that you are somehow trying to find excuses for your own lack of study discipline. Distance learning takes a lot of discipline and determination! It's all up to you if you are among those who will make it to the finish line or not! As already mentioned here, you must make scarifies! During the time when I was studying for the ATP exams (DL as well) I literally had no social life anymore. I was mainly focusing on the studies! It was a tough time, lost my father during that time, followed by a hardship of my personal life and had to move several times. It was very difficult to keep up the motivation and keep on going. At times I found myself struggling, but I never gave up on accomplishing that mission! I think of the ATP studies as a kind of pre-selection where the wheat is separated from the chaff.
I believe that you must make some changes if you want to accomplish the goal of finishing up the ATP exams! Might want to consider going full time, but be aware this still requires determination and discipline! It's also important to have the support and understating of your wife, otherwise it wont be possible to be successful!
By the way, if you wait until you feel ready to take the exam, this moment will never come, since the scope of the ATP exams is far to extensive for that. Hit the question database hard, be prepared as good as you can and then go for the exams. But if you're waiting for this moment of confidence, I'm absolutely sure I can pass this particular subject, this will never happen.
Here are a few good motivational videos to watch:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUqiXPAj5fc
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUqi...?v=sGw769X75u8
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uUqi...?v=sGw769X75u8
Excuses will always be there for you, opportunity won't! Best whishes and good luck!