I wondered about the same thing for years. I just didn't understand bipolar so I couldn't make any connection until someone told me about it.

Find things to do that keep your interest. Exercise is good - that's "alone" time that's also good for all sorts of things. I also think mindfulness is critical. I'm at this crossroads right now. I'm trying not to obsess about BP but I need to keep reminding myself to be a nicer, less intense person without losing my "edge" so-to-speak. It's a tricky balance.