Andy,
I would suggest make sure you fly again soon.
My first solo was 4th December and what with Christmas, work and weather did not fly again until today. Took three or four circuits with instructor (one go around) and although after the full stop landing he would have let me go solo again I was not sure. Did a final cicuit with him in the plane (and greased it).
I too used to hold the yoke tightly. One thing that helped me was when I was taught to keep the plane trimmed all the time. Feels like I'm trimming continuously in the circuit - climb, straight and level, 2 stage flaps on base and full flap on final - current instructor leaves carb heat on after downwind checks - so can need yet another trim but does mean only finger tips are needed to control the plane.
Would not worry about coming upto 40 - Life is just about to begin! I was given a trial lesson was for my 40th birthday and my next lesson was 12 years later.
Chris