Making It Work Even When My Mind Doesn’t

Running a business is hard.

Running a business while managing bipolar disorder; that’s a whole different kind of challenge.

I’ve always had what people call “crazy ideas.” And I say that lightly, because honestly, it’s true. I get bursts of creativity and energy that push me to think outside the box, create new projects, or even start something completely out of nowhere. Those manic phases, they’re wild, but they’re also when a lot of the magic happens. Most of my biggest breakthroughs and business ideas were born from that energy.

But it’s not always that bright.

There are also days when everything shuts down. When the same brain that once overflowed with ideas suddenly feels empty. When I can’t move, can’t think, can’t respond. Earlier this year, I was hospitalized. And that experience humbled me in ways I didn’t expect. It reminded me that no amount of success is worth losing yourself.

Having bipolar disorder while running a business means I constantly battle with my own mind. It’s a rollercoaster —anxiety, self-doubt, exhaustion— but somehow, I’ve learned to ride it. Slowly, I’ve figured out how to make it work for me, not against me.

When I’m in my manic phase, I make the most out of it: I create, I plan, I build.

When I’m in my depressive phase, I rest, delegate, and let my systems (and team) carry the load.

That’s something I learned the hard way: you can’t do this alone.

Having the right people beside you changes everything. When I met my first full-time teammate, it honestly changed my life. I finally had someone who understood my rhythm: someone who could pick up where I left off when things got heavy.

And having mentors and consultants helped too. Sometimes you just need someone to ground you, to remind you of the bigger picture when you get lost in your own head.

I also learned to prepare for the low days.Contingency plans. Boundaries. Medication. Wellness routines.Avoiding isolation. Asking for help, even when it’s uncomfortable.

This path isn’t easy, but it’s fulfilling. Every time I get through a depressive episode and come out the other side still standing, still creating, still leading. It feels empowering.

I honestly believe that people with unique minds are capable of creating unique things. We just have to find a way to manage the chaos, use it with purpose, and take care of ourselves along the way.

So yes: crazy path, crazy ideas.

Goal? To be crazy successful too.