It’s simply amazing what gratitude can do for you and how it can enrich one’s life. I am personally thankful for all of the amazing opportunities in my life. Despite being diagnosed with bipolar I have accomplished many things in my life. I have managed a multi-million dollar 4 star restaurant, received recognition from a national magazine, invested, owned and managed real estate, started my own company, and been a consultant for new start-up companies.

Sure, bipolar is an illness that can hold you back from doing things in your life and brings about obstacles that others don’t have to deal with. Bipolar also has an upside. People with bipolar usually have a very creative side to them. This is what has helped me accomplish many of the things I have done. Many famous people that had bipolar were known as “creative geniuses”. I do no think that this is overstated at all. Someone with bipolar has a very unique and powerful ability to come up with new ideas and strategies that most people can’t fathom. People with bipolar can usually think outside the box, sometimes way outside the box, and provide solutions to many hard to answer problems.

Life seems to be going great right now, although it could be a manic episode coming on as Spring begins and the weather is warmer and the sun is shining. Even if it is, the medicine always helps to maintain a balance that is otherwise impossible. That’s the thing with bipolar, it never really goes away. No matter what medicine you’re on or how long you’re on it there will always be the ups and downs life throws at you. Someone with bipolar has to be a little more aware of their moods and how life affects them, but don’t all of us? I’ve learned that regardless of having bipolar or not life is going to be hard and unpredictable and no matter what I am going to enjoy my life and live it with an attitude of gratitude. Today, I am thankful for my life.