I agree with Wild Coyote that this thread has attracted many interesting responses. It's lovely to read. Thanks for starting this thread, Christina, and thanks to everyone who has contributed. I'm sure even some who haven't written here are thinking about this.


When I am baseline, which I think I'm at now, I'm fairly upbeat and energetic. [Actually, maybe today isn't a perfect example since I just started my monthly.] I like projects a lot and am usually able to come up with some easily. Then I really get into them and hyperfocus. They aren't always the ones I should be doing, but oh well! I find and make humor in lots of things. Sometimes I am the only one laughing, but that's OK. When I go out, I usually have at least something interesting happen or to observe. I am very outgoing at baseline and don't hesitate to talk to people. I still flirt, but not as blatantly as I do when I am some degree of manic. Don't get me wrong, it's not always happy joy. I can still be set off easily. I have a little temper, when triggered, but it passes quickly. I'm loud and gabby even at baseline. I try to calm it, but it's not always easy. It's partly from exuberance and partly learned from my upbringing. I'm generally confident and curious. I usually live in and savor the present.