I just discovered that I have little to no money in the bank. What is particularly bad is the bank account I manage for my mother is also down pretty low. The foremost reason is that I impulsively placed too much money toward paying off her credit card. I was not thinking clearly. I am not thinking clearly. I was certain that there was more than enough money to make it to the next month. Where did it all go? I have not used any of my mothers money for myself, despite my more manic periods, which is good news.I did purchase allot of things for her. I enjoyed spending the money, even though what I purchased was not for me. And I know where my own money went: out into a black hole.

What to do? I think I can pull this off this one time. But I will have to change the approach I use to manage money that would take into consideration my problem. I am sure I do not understand the full extent of this problem. I still have not figured out what the solution will be. Make a budget when I am more clear headed? Have automatic withdrawals upfront with online banking to have a reserve to pay most all the the bills? Yes, this may help. Examine the amount in the bank accounts on a daily basis? May not work during my more carefree periods of time. It will need to be something. I must believe that I can work this out. Ah, I know, forget the credit cards and deal strictly in cash.

I do have my "everything is wonderful" hypomanic episodes. Earlier I have put most of the money (both mine and my mothers) in purposefully illiquid investments. This was a good move on my part. But it was not good enough. Boy, I hope I will get some sleep tonight. I hope I will not become really depressed over this.

How does everyone end up handling their money, even through their manic episodes? How do you stay financially afloat, despite impulsive financial blunders?