Over the last 35 years of living with this "little" problem, I have developed a rather cautious habit. Instead of eagerly agreeing to running with a new idea I am excited about, I tend to shy away from commitment.

Therein lies the one of the less well recognised damaging effects of mania: Low self worth - not because I think I'm worthless or incapable - it comes from achieving far less than I know I can do because I back away from so much, not wanting to be caught with a commitment I can't deliver on at a time of major depression.

So my survival approach has adapted, and I keep my projects short for a good reason:

Note to self: Strike while the iron is hot, and complete it now while you can, for tomorrow you may not be able to.

Another note to self: find a solution to procrastination...