How to Stay Organized and On Top of Things
How to Stay Organized and On Top of Things (Even When Brain Fog Hits!)
Let's talk about something no one really warned us about: peri/menopause brain fog. You know, that frustrating feeling when you walk into a room and immediately forget why you’re there. Or when you’re halfway through a sentence and totally lose your train of thought. It’s like your brain hits the “shuffle” button without asking for your permission.
Add that to the usual life chaos - juggling work, family, friendships, self-care, and, oh yeah, apparently we’re meant to not just survive but actually thrive - and it can feel impossible to stay organised and on top of things
So what can we do about it? It starts with a shift in how we approach our daily tasks, especially with the brain fog tagging along for the ride.
1. Make Lists Your Best Friend
Hit up your favourite Kikki-K, because it’s all about lists. Whether it’s a to-do list, a grocery list, or even a "things I need to remember" list, writing things down helps prevent that brain fog from taking over. The key is making lists AVAILABLE.
When the thought hits, you need a way to record it before that thought bubble bursts from your brain (cause we all we all know how quickly that can happen!).
Throw a small notebook in your handbag, use the notes app in your phone (this works well for me), or (also a favourite) sticky notes all over the place - whatever works best for you.
Here’s my two favourite hacks to keep track of my “to-do’s”:
Magnetic whiteboard “sheets” - these are SO GOOD. Tear it off like a piece of butchers paper, cut them into any size you need, and it uses static electricity to “stick” on to any surface. I put these behind doors, on my mirrors, on my wardrobes… and then write all my reminders on them! Just remove and replace when you’re done - no damage to your walls!.
Magnetic sticky notes - In the same vein, I have these notes everywhere… on my computer, on my screen, on my door, on my fridge, in my car. They pop into your handbag, actually stay on any surface (not like normal sticky notes) and don’t fall off PLUS they don’t leave a sticky residue. Game changer!
2. Prioritise Two Things For YOU In Your Routine Schedule
A structured routine gives your brain fewer things to process at once. When you know exactly what to expect each day, it reduces decision fatigue (a huge win when your brain’s not firing on all cylinders).
Try to prioritise TWO things for yourself daily (or weekly) and stick to it like a routine. From when you’ll do quick household chores, to when you can fit in a walk or some downtime, having a plan makes it easier to stay on top of everything without feeling overwhelmed.
3. Declutter and Simplify
If you’ve ever read my book - The Capsule Wardrobe - you’ll know that I believe physical clutter = mental clutter. And mental clutter + brain fog is a recipe for forgetting things, feeling disorganised, and stressing out. So, try to keep most of your spaces as simple and organised as possible. Pantries, cupboards under the sink, wardrobes. I genuinely believe that when you can SEE everything, you’ll remember what you have, what you need, what you were planning to do and why you were there in the first place!
4. Use Tech to Your Advantage
If you're like me, you probably spend a decent amount of time on your phone. And while yes, I do doom scroll Instagram, I also use it to stay organised! There are tons of apps that can help you keep track of your tasks, appointments, and reminders. I personally use Apple’s built in To Do list app, and I also have Evernote for more complex stuff. Plus - I diarise the cr*p out of EVERYTHING to keep track of events and deadlines.
I also spent an hour one weekend setting up recurring payments for all my bills so I could stop forgetting to pay the credit card or electricity bill. An hour worth spending! Technology is here to help us, so use it!
5. Get Comfortable with Saying “Good Enough”
Sometimes, in the middle of menopause brain fog, it’s easy to feel like you be and do everything. Let me give you permission to let go of that expectation. You don’t have to do it all (check out last week’s post on how to set boundaries and say no!)
Importantly, you don’t have to be perfect, and that’s okay! Perfectionism adds unnecessary stress, especially when you’re managing so much already.
If the laundry pile is a little higher than usual, or the kids' activities are running behind schedule, it’s all good. Focus on what really matters and remember: you’re doing your best, and that’s more than enough.
6. Normalise brain fog
Talk to people about your brain fog. I used to pretend my brain was still on fire. Now, I am very upfront at work, with my boss, with my team that I have blank moments and that I need their patience and help. You’d be surprised how many people are in the same boat, or have wives who are experiencing the same and how much it can help when people understand what you’re going through.
6. Give Yourself Grace
Finally, be kind to yourself. Yes, peri-menopause brain fog is frustrating, but beating yourself up over it isn’t going to help. Give yourself grace and remember that this phase is temporary. When things feel chaotic, it’s okay to step back, take a deep breath, and recognise that you’re doing the best you can. You’ve got this.
The Bottom Line
Brain fog and chaos are part of the package deal as we navigate this stage of life. But with a little planning, some helpful tech, and a sprinkle of self-compassion, you can stay organised and on top of things - even when everything feels like it’s spinning out of control.
So, grab your list, embrace your routine, and remember: it’s okay to let go of perfection. The most important thing is that you’re showing up, doing your best - even when life gets a little foggy!