Last week, I was meeting with an entrepreneur, and after we finished the conversation, I reflected on how fully he embodied a term I had heard a few years ago to describe a certain type of entrepreneur: one with a hypomanic edge.

If you look up some of the signs of a hypomanic episode, the descriptions often include a decreased need for sleep, feeling rested after only a few hours, increased energy and goal-directed activity, a strong drive to get things done, racing thoughts, a mind going 100 miles an hour, high confidence, heightened self-esteem or feelings of grandiosity, rapid speech, and impulsivity, the need to do things without necessarily thinking them through.

When I read these signs of hypomanic behavior, I thought, yes, that sounds like a certain type of entrepreneur I have met and worked with many times over the years.

The key with entrepreneurs who have a hypomanic edge is that their energy and enthusiasm must be focused on the most important and pressing issues. Sometimes there is a tendency to try to do too many things, and an element of whiplash can be introduced inside the startup. Everyone is heading down one path, rallied and motivated, and then suddenly a different shiny object appears. Now everyone has to get aligned around this new direction. Then, as the team starts working on that new direction, yet another opportunity arises.

This can be unbelievably difficult for organizations. While some people enjoy lots of change and rapid iteration, most people do not. They would prefer something more stable and consistent.

Another important element of working with entrepreneurs who have a hypomanic edge is pacing the effort. One of the telltale signs is a sense of urgency, an abundance of energy, and a fearless, aggressive approach to pursuing goals. While these qualities can be unbelievably useful in building a successful business, they can also come with a downside. The chance of burnout, depression, or serious illness can increase.

Personally, I know two entrepreneurs with a hypomanic edge who worked so hard for so long that each ended up in the hospital for a week with exhaustion. They had pushed themselves beyond the limit, and their bodies could not take it.

For entrepreneurs with a hypomanic edge, and for the team members, advisors, mentors, and investors working with them, it is important to recognize that these are special individuals. Their energy, enthusiasm, and confidence are infectious. Embrace the opportunity to work with them. Encourage them. Help them focus and stay the course. Be by their side as they experience the ups and downs of the startup journey.

Above all, know that they need support and encouragement, too. Do your part to help them achieve their dreams.