I've always taken risks and bought property well. As journalism wasn't particularly well paid, buying homes and selling them for profit improved my income.

I eventually got a job with a television company, started to see how exciting journalism could be as a career, and decided that was what I wanted to do.

When I was about 17, I had a row with my mother and left home for six months, renting a flat and working as a waitress for a while. I learnt you could double your earnings if you gave good, cheerful service. It taught me that in any job you can improve your lot.

I never wanted to run a production company. I didn't want to convert my life into running a business.... so I always resisted it and kept things simple.

Believe me, I've done my time travelling the world in cramped conditions and carrying my own luggage. Now my leisure is summers in the south of France or the Hamptons, walking in Connemara, and year-round shopping in Manhattan and Paris.

My best business decision is always to have been unembarrassed about negotiating a decent deal. Not being coy or shy about money is second nature to me.

I am dating, but it is hard to find someone quick enough and funny enough. I am quite demanding.