I'm at my best when... the sun's shining and I have all my good friends and family around me. I can be anywhere in the world and as long as I have the right people with me, then I'm happy.

Those closest to me would describe me as... very loyal, fun-loving, spontaneous, funny and extremely generous.

One thing about my past I don't admit easily is... my history of anorexia. I've finally started talking about it because I want to close the door on it.

Three things I'd want if I was stranded on a desert island are... a blanket to keep me warm as it gets cold at night, lots of bottled water and an endless supply of chocolate. My favourite at the moment is Thorntons.

One thing I'd like to do before I die is... have babies. I believe it's an amazing experience that every woman should have if they can.

If I advertised myself on a dating site, it would read... "I'm a girl that knows what I want and what I need, and I don't settle for less. I'm fun to be around and I moan occasionally - but nobody's perfect!"

Nikki says:
Nikki says: "On my journey to the pot of gold I get caught up in many tornados along the way and I will always opt for the hardest way of doing things."

The thing I like least about myself is... I've got no hips. I think if I did, my legs would look less podgy at the top.

My fantasy dinner date would be... Stand-up comic Michael McIntyre, because he makes me laugh.

The thing I value most is... my mum Susan and my friends. If I fall out with a friend it niggles with me until we've made up.

My biggest regret is... wasting my childhood in hospital with anorexia. I missed years of growing up - all those Christmases, family holidays and birthdays I won't get back. And having to rebuild my life at 16 when I got out. That's why I live for the moment now.

If I wasn't in telly I'd be... a wedding planner or florist.

Answer the following...

I am a perfectionist... Always

I often experience strong, irresistible cravings I can't resist... Always

Large social gatherings exhaust me... Never

I lose focus when under stress or pressure... Always

When I get angry I tend to lose my temper... Always





'Perfectionist Nikki finds life frustrating'

JAMES' VERDICT: "Spontaneous Nikki hates routine and structure, preferring to explore opportunities that intuitively feel right. Her almost obsessive desire for perfection means she sets her goals and standards very high, which often leads to disappointment. When Nikki feels anger or fear, she can become impulsive in her decision making. She has learned to replace abstinence with more productive cravings for things like chocolate, but still suffers from the low self-esteem that fuelled her childhood suffering.

The small figure in Nikki's picture shows her trying to scale a tornado, which is impossible. This represents the difficulties she has experienced. The pot of gold reflects her aspirations to gain confidence and start a family, while the heavy line on the 'easy route' suggests frustration with her life, which she sees as difficult and stressful."

James is a specialist in psychometric testing.

Nikki's book, Nikki Grahame: Dying To Be Thin (John Blake Publishing, £16.99) is out now.

Your comments

This article has 1 comment

I am glad Nicki is no longer suffering with anorexia and is able to talk about it a bit more, I used to and it is a horrible illness. Thankfully I am well now with the help of the 12 step group, overeaters anonymous (I know the name sounds off for an anorexic but it helps any eating disorders!)

By Kate. Posted June 9 2009 at 10:59 PM.

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