INTRODUCTION -- tells the author's story of recovery from brain injury and how to use her systems to better organize your daily life...including:

• how chapters and topics are laid out
• taking your time and being patient with yourself
• modifying the systems to meet your needs
• asking for help
• breaking the job down into manageable pieces

CHAPTER 1: BRAIN ON A STRING -- teaches you how to create a memory notebook in a bag...including:

• materials needed
• assembling the notebook
• deciding on categories / sections
• gathering your personal data
• using the system
• combining your calendar with a digital timer
• conducting and remembering conversations

CHAPTER 2: GRAND CENTRAL STATION -- offer a home management center that will become the hub for all your household information...including:

• materials needed
• creating your wall calendar
• a memo caddy with sticky notes
• caller ID and your answering machine
• setting up daily folders
• your mail container
• using a portable file box
• using and maintaining the system
• "do now" versus "do later"
• everyday examples of where to file, store, and record

CHAPTER 3: READY, SET, GO -- outlines a system for making sure you have everything you need to get out of the door...including:

• setting up your entry / exit area
• useful items to have by the door
• making lists
• containerizing your clutter
• examples of "designated storage spots"

CHAPTER 4: KITCHEN HELP -- helps you set up appetizing activity centers for meal preparation...including:

• what activities happen in the kitchen
• supplies you use regularly
• creating zones
• setting up your workstations

CHAPTER 5: DINNER TIME -- guides you through some easy tricks to stress-free meal planning and grocery shopping...including:

• the value of meal plans
• using a magnetic dry-erase board
• pre-printed shopping lists
• mapping out your grocery store
• creating a shopping clipboard
• your recipe binder
• shopping by color
• using the system to save time

CHAPTER 6: UNWRINKLING THE WARDROBE -- offers some tips for an orderly closet and smoother dressing routine...including:

• asking some important questions about your wardrobe
• setting up a clothing plan
• sorting
• having a reason for putting it there
• containers and labels
• laundry
• minimizing clothing choices
• choosing your daily outfits

CHAPTER 7: DON'T FORGET TO BRUSH YOUR TEETH -- shows you how to set up a bathroom that reminds you what to do...including:

• what's working and what isn't in your bathroom
• activities that happen in the bathroom
• grooming and persona care supplies
• setting up zones
• storing "extras"

CHAPTER 8: WHAT ABOUT ALL THE OTHER STUFF? -- offers simple guidelines for organizing anything...including:

• coming up with a plan
• keeping your systems simple
• sorting and purging
• assigning items a home
• forward-thinking organizing
• containers and labels

CHAPTER 9: CONSERVE YOUR ENERGY -- teaches you some valuable strategies for managing fatigue...including:

• getting enough rest
• recognizing and using your energy cycles
• advance planning
• monitoring your progress
• regulating your mood and schedule
• prioritizing
• living in the moment

APPENDICES: -- offers some useful information and resources for those seeking additional help...including:

• using meal delivery services
• where to find the right materials
• organizing books
• support groups