I’m Kelly Morgan—indie author, indie publisher, and host of The Author’s Mic™. Today I’m talking about something a lot of us whisper about but live with daily: menopause (and perimenopause). It touches everything—body, mood, focus—and yes, it impacts how we write, create, and show up.

Some days I’m on fire. Other days, fumes. I’ve recorded interviews while literally sweating, smiling through a hot flash like I just left the gym. I’ve lost my train of thought mid-sentence thanks to fog that rolls in out of nowhere. If that’s you too—you’re not alone.

Why this conversation matters

Menopause changes your relationship with energy. The move that’s helped me most: work with it, not against it. If mornings are your clear window, write in the morning. If afternoons crash, rest without guilt. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s presence.

“Menopause doesn’t take your creativity—it changes how you access it.”

What’s working for me (simple, not fancy)

Hydrate. Keep water within reach while you write. It helps with temperature, energy, and focus.

Eat for steady energy. Whole foods, protein, greens, healthy fats. Food is fuel.

Move your body. I love yoga. I’ll flow right through a hot flash if I have to. A dog walk counts. Movement steadies my mind.

Protect your rest. Sleep can be unpredictable. I use daytime breaks and quick resets—without guilt.

Cool your space. Desk fans, box fans, even the wrap-around-the-neck fan. Not cute. Very effective.

Talk about it. The nods I get from other women say it all. We’re not broken—we’re adapting.

How I’m reframing “showing up”

I plan work in my best energy windows.

I treat rest as a tool, not a reward.

I bring the fan, press record anyway, and give myself grace when the words come slowly.

I remember: fog passes—and words return.

“You’re not losing your drive. You’re learning a new rhythm.”

A note to every woman writer

Chin hairs, fans, brain fog and all—you’re still powerful. Your words matter. Your stories matter. You matter. Keep showing up with me.

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We might be sweaty and foggy—but we’re still here. Keep writing.