Common pattern around here is a good wind that takes me all the way out, then a calm, followed by building wind.
I've learned to not be concerned about the lack of wind, because if I try to motor home, I usually don't get there until right around the time the wind comes back. And I sail so much faster than I can motor....
So, I have learned that taking a nap is the best strategy for this common situation.
There are some exceptions; when I recognize that things don't fall into a pattern, I do use the trolling motor, and so far, I've not reached the end of its range.
The wind pattern described has to do with a sea-breeze building late in the afternoon, it's a dependable feature for certain weather patterns.