In June this year, I became a Facebook ‘top fan’ of an independent bookshop that opened earlier in the year in my home town of Grantham. This surprised me as I hadn’t set foot in the place! I loved the idea of a bookshop springing up on the high street, as Grantham is awash with cafes, charity, and barber shops, but nothing like this. The town needed it.

My head was a mixed-up mess before I discovered the links to it and my adoption.

Below are 21 pieces of advice I wish someone had passed on to me then.

What advice would you give?