Actually, I'm delighted when someone confesses to being surprised to discover something about me. It means I've been very successful in maintaining what is most precious to me - keeping the things that really matter in my life unexposed.

I believe in love, but I don't sit around waiting for it. I buy houses.

Motherhood has never been an ambition. I don't think like that. I never have expectations like, 'When I'm 19 I'm going to do this, and by the time I've hit 25 I'm going to do that'. I just take things as they come, each day at a time, and if things happen then all well and good.

Academics were important to my parents, as immigrants. Education is where it all begins.

When you think about it, when you're single you are not deprived in any way - if anything, it's a pretty self-indulgent lifestyle. It's selfish: You can make your own decisions and indulge yourself on an impulse.

Exercise is my outlet, the one thing I do during the day that's mine and mine alone. I don't want to work with a trainer, and I don't want to go with friends to the gym. It's my solitude, and I need it.

Goodness in other people and what they contribute inspire me. I love it when someone is gifted and shares it in some way so that it has a trickle-down effect.