Hi Blue October,
I was only diagnosed at the beginning of the year, I can't remember exactly when as it came while i was in my depressed stated.
I know exactly what you mean about the hypomania, that feels like the real me. The one that is brilliant and driven and can (and often does) do whatever i want to. And she is the one that people like! I know this coz people tell me.
But I've been up and down so much and the 'normal' phase is so rare I just don't know what to do with myself. I haven't got the super sharp thinking to inspire me but by the same count I do still care. So I feel aimless.