Having a routine really helps me. I don't work now but I do volunteer. Monday through Friday I get up every day and go to a diner for breakfast at $4.77 a day. It is well worth it as it gets me going. I spend some time there, talking to people and reading. Tuesday and Thursday afternoons I volunteer at a charity that refurbishes computers for people with low incomes. Wednesdays I take a friend with me to an art class at a social club for people with "serious and persistent" mental illness, as it is stated. Usually twice a week I spend the evening at a friend's house. I like having the weekend at home with the dogs, quiet and involved in chores (a little), tv and extended computer time. When my routine is interrupted I find I have more problems with life and bipolar. (I also try to go to bed at about the same time every night.)