My bipolar can influence, alter, and even determine how I am able to perceive, think, and, at times, act. However, I can do the same. I can influence, alter, and, yes, even determine the severity of my bipolar and thereby the severity of the outcomes of my actions.

I can learn how to be as stable as possible and not accept failure on that account.

I can learn how to moderate my behavior by noting how I've failed to do so in the past.

I can admit when my cognition is impaired and do what I can to exercise caution thereby gaining ever
greater mastery of my impulse control. I must do this for I have no choice but to live with the consequences of my actions. If I allow my bipolar to fully determine my actions I forfeit any right to claim an action was, truly, outside of my control.