It’s definitely not normal. You should be able to just do it straight from Disk Utility. If it’s in a boot loop there is definitely a deeper problem.

One thing you could try is resetting the NVRAM. Boot up by holding Option+Command+P+R. Keep them down until you hear the startup sound twice or see the Apple logo reappear twice.

If you have an Intel Mac then resetting the SMC might also help. Turn it off, hold down Shift+Control+Option for 10 seconds. Let go and power back on.