Musicians: what is different for you between the times you are more creative and the times you are less creative?

During the time I had hypomania (a very light mania) I was gigging more than I ever had in my life. I guess I had the confidence in myself necessary to reach out to others and work with them. I was also able to get a gig for the group I was playing with.

When I was depressed, playing music was one of a couple of things that could make me forget how alone I was. It was the only time I felt connected to anyone else. My depression was tolerable during those times.

For me, it’s kind of obvious what separated the good times from the bad. I’m sure it’s not so clear for others. Still, think about it, and see what you come up with. When were you doing well, and when were you doing poorly? Can you offer a theory to explain the difference?