Recipe for a cold
Let's see. . . . Start with too much to do, both at work and outside of work, and some tight deadlines, and some temporary financial stresses. Add several nights' worth of inadequate sleep. If an introvert, mix in two long weekendfuls of heavy socializing (and little free time and little alone-time). Stir. Cover with heavy overcast to dampen mood. Now add low-level more or less continuous exposure to a cold over a several-day period.
When the cold symptoms inevitably set in, be surprised. Proceed to add some deadline pressure and some work that can't be done from home, plus a couple of long, intense, and fairly distressing emotional conversations and interactions.
Dust lightly with continuing inadequate sleep. Turn up the temperature, then turn it down, aiming for the zone where a blanket is too warm but a sheet is too cool; repeat until awake.
Season with ineffective sleeping drugs and ineffective painkillers to taste. Add insufficient amounts of water.
Sprinkle with a touch of whiny self-pity; top with a dollop of humor to reduce bitterness.
Serves none.