Whether you view living alone as the ultimate compromise or the ultimate luxury, it presents daily challenges, such as cooking for one, organising a holiday, eating out alone, juggling finances, or trying not to succumb to the siren call of wine, Ugg boots and binge Netflix. And there are the less tangible tests that can ambush you, like nailing the octopus of loneliness to the wall, and holding your head high in a society where living alone is viewed (consciously or not) as synonymous with failure: the runner up prize.

Author Jane Mathews believes that to be truly content living alone, it pays to examine every aspect of life - relationships, health, home, finances, interests and spirituality - and then take action. No matter what your particular situation, there's something here for you. Jane provides the map and you choose the route to a more joyful, contented life.