With the news that "Bridget Jones's Baby" is being released in September, it's important to remember Bridget Jones as she first was: the 30-something singleton who was perpetually unlucky in love. So let's review all the lessons Bridget Jones has taught us about love, life, and getting drunk.
1. Always dress to impress.
First impressions are key, so it's important that you're always looking your best because you never know who you're going to run into, or who your mother is going to set you up with.
2. New Year's resolutions don't really start until January 2.
You can't expect people to stop cold turkey at midnight. Any sensible person knows that you don't have to start adhering to your New Year's resolutions until the second day of the new year.
3. It's important to know what you don't want.
You can't find Mr. Right until you know who is Mr. Wrong. Avoid these guys at all costs. Especially, the guy that embodies all of these characteristics (cough, cough), Daniel Cleaver.
4. Your life will never be perfect.
Whether it's your relationship with your parents, trouble at work, or a love life that is DOA, you're always going to have to work to keep your life from being in total shambles.
5. You'll always have alcohol.
When your life inevitably hits one -- or 10 -- roadblocks, know that you can always turn to alcohol. It's one of the words most popular cures, as short-term as it is.
6. You have to accept yourself for who you are.
Recognize your faults and don't let them bring you down. Everyone feels inferior around smug married couples, anyway.
7. Listen to your friends.
If your friends think you're too good for a guy, then they're probably right. They're the ones that you best, so they know exactly what you deserve, and won't let you settle for anything less.
8. Don't shag your boss.
Not only will he turn out to be a commitment-phobe who is shagging an American stick insect, but you'll have to find a new job after you two break up.
9. Stand up to people who don't treat you with respect.
If someone's being a jerk to you, call them our for it. You deserve someone who gives you respect and values your worth.
10. Go all out for that costume party.
So what if that Tarts and Vicars party is actually canceled? If we learned anything from Bridget Jones and Elle Woods it's that you rock that bunny costume, even if you turn out to be the only one dressed up.
11. You're perfect just as you are.
If Colin Firth says so, then you know it has to be true.
Let's hope Bridget's penchant for hilarious mishaps carries over into motherhood.
