Cynthia Lawrence

Growing up, I'd been taught to never think, breathe, or even utter this F-word.

Before we’ve even had time to digest the festive season (and the last of the mulled wine), the overwhelming abundance of red hearts, teddy bears, and all things contrived come out to taunt us. They’re everywhere. From the zillion greeting cards, custom chocolates, gift ideas, sex toys, you name it — all in the name of a dude called Cupid.

Far from being shy and retiring wallflowers, introverts can be just as successful, (Bill Gates, J.K. Rowling), proving that you don’t have to be the loudest, abrasive, or most domineering to stand out from the crowd!

I crave it 24/7 and it follows me everywhere I go...even to the bathroom!

Wouldn't it be great if we could go back in time and talk to our younger selves? What would you say (besides ridiculing those questionable hairstyles and dodgy dates!)? Fortunately, we live and learn — painfully at times — and realize these experiences only define who we are.

After the initial shock and panic, it’s easy to wallow in a sea of self-pity (over a bottle of red). But don’t let it be all doom and gloom. Dust yourself off, get your Olivia Pope thinking-cap on and get it ‘handled’.

Don’t: Overindulge at the free bar. Open bars can be a recipe for disaster if abused.

4. Bring sexy back — Your underwear drawer is starting to resemble your gran's. What happened to the sexy lingerie you used to enjoy buying (a long time ago)?

I’ll admit, there is something thrilling about purchasing something new, even if it was an item I wasn’t sure I needed. But the reduced price of £10 from £40 justified the spend!

Now, I’m no qualified medic, but surely this was no coincidence.