The Space Reclaimers

Clutter you can't see: mental load Y the invisible to-dos

The Clutter You Can’t See: Mental Load & the Invisible To-Dos

May 12, 20254 min read

You tidied the kitchen bench.
You finally cleared that pile on the table.
But your mind? Still overflowing.

This is the kind of clutter no one else sees:
the constant to-do list running in your head,
the emotional load,
the mental tabs open all at once (some from three weeks ago!).

It’s the planning, remembering, and managing that never stops—even when you sit down.

You’re running your business, being there for your family, showing up for everyone… and somehow still keeping track of all the things that no one else notices.

Your body’s shifting with perimenopause or menopause.
The brain fog hits. Your energy dips.
But the expectations? Still full speed ahead.

It’s no wonder you’re feeling stretched.


What Is Mental Load?

Mental load is the invisible work of life.
It’s the decisions you make, the reminders you hold, the emotional effort behind the scenes.

Like remembering your daughter’s favorite snacks for school, replying to that client message, scheduling the car service, and booking your smear test (because no one else will, right?).

It’s constant. It’s heavy. And it builds up—quietly.


Why It Feels Heavier in Midlife

Let’s be honest, this stage of life? It’s a lot.

You might be supporting teens, growing a business, navigating big hormonal changes, or even caring for aging parents.

And if you also experience ADHD symptoms (whether diagnosed or not), things like remembering details, organizing thoughts, or getting started on tasks might feel even harder than usual.

It’s not in your head—this is real mental fatigue.

And when everything relies on you keeping it together, that invisible weight can quickly become overwhelming.


Spot the Signs You’re Carrying Too Much Mental Clutter

  • You always feel “on” and can’t fully relax

  • You’re forgetting little things—even the ones you just thought about

  • You can’t seem to finish anything because you’re constantly interrupted (even by your own thoughts)

  • You’re snapping more easily, feeling foggy, or just flat

  • You feel guilty for not having “a better system” (spoiler: it’s not you—it’s the load)

This isn’t about needing more motivation.
It’s about needing less
mental mess.


3 Ways to Lighten the Mental Load

Let’s clear a little headspace without overhauling your whole life.

You don’t need a colour-coded planner or a 5am miracle routine.

You need practical tools that fit your real schedule.


1. Offload Your Brain Daily

Give your mind a break.
Set a 5-minute timer, grab a notepad (or voice note if writing feels like too much), and just let it all spill out.

No filters. No order. Just everything that’s buzzing around in there.

This simple habit can instantly help you feel clearer—and it gets easier with practice.


2. Call Out the Unseen Work

Start noticing the quiet tasks you’re doing—and give them credit.

“I’ve already made 18 decisions this morning and it’s not even 10am.”

That matters.

Ask yourself:
“Am I the only one keeping track of this?”

If so, it might be time to share the load—at home, in your business, or with someone who can help you simplify.


3. Stack Micro Habits Into Your Day

Instead of trying to do more, try adding small routines to things you already do.

  • Toss in a load of washing while your coffee brews

  • Wipe down the bathroom bench after brushing your teeth

  • Jot down tomorrow’s to-dos while the kettle boils

Tiny habits, stacked on everyday moments, help build flow.
And flow feels so much better than chaos.


This Isn’t Just Clutter—It’s Capacity

So much of what you’re carrying isn’t visible to others.

But it’s sitting in your mind, draining your energy, and pushing your needs down the list (again).

That’s why I don’t just help women clear their spaces—I help them clear the noise inside too.

Because feeling calm and in control again?
That’s the kind of reset you truly deserve.

Let me ask you:

🌀 What’s taking up the most space in your mind right now?
🌀 What would change if you weren’t carrying it all alone?


Want Support Lightening the Mental Load?

If you're craving more clarity, structure, and breathing space—without adding to your overwhelm—this is for you.

Join the waitlist for the Fog to Flow Reset Program:
A calming, supportive space where you’ll learn how to release the mental clutter, build gentle routines, and actually feel on top of things again.

This isn’t about pushing harder. It’s about finally getting some breathing room—and support that meets you where you are.

👉 Click here to join the waitlist and be the first to know when doors open.

You deserve this.



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Hi! I'm Louise Hopkin

So happy you are looking to start reclaiming your space!

I know your time is precious so I wanted to thank you for stopping by!

I created this blog to help you maximize your time, and flow in your home to allow for increased creativity, productivity and abundance!

Ready to simplify your life and remove toxins from your home?

Check out my amazing resource

The Complete Declutter Challenge Bundle

Here's What's Included:

Digital & Paper Challenge: This challenge will guide you over the 5 days how to work through your piles of paper, create a simple filing system for paper and digital and keep you organized.

Kickstart Your Clutter: This 5 day challenge will help you work through the overwhelm of where to begin. We will walk through how to set up a plan, steps to take to declutter and get you results.

How to Overcome Procrastination: Tired of putting things off and feeling stuck? The Overcome Procrastination Challenge will help you break the cycle with simple, doable actions. No more waiting for motivation—just quick, effective strategies to get started and stay on track. Imagine the relief of getting things done with ease. Let’s turn procrastination into progress!

BONUS CHALLENGE:

No Spend Challenge: This challenge is perfect if you are looking for some motivation and inspiration to start saving. It could also be that you would like to stop brining in items to your home each month.

Ready to get your paper and digital clutter organized and kickstart your clutter-free journey for $7 (normally $47)

If you want to:

💻 Get your digital clutter under control so you can easily find things

🌸 Create calm and peace in your home

🛑 Stop moving those D.O.O.M piles around! (Don't Organize Only Move)

...then this BUNDLE is for you!

Watch on Your Time:

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