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Still Counting
Leana
Tell us your story:
I have quit a million times. The longest was for 1 1/2 years. Then I went to a class reunion and had one 'for old times sake'. Bad idea. This time it is a New Year Resolution. It has been three weeks. I used the patch for the first 2 weeks. I would have bought more, but it costs too much and I was too busy to make it to the store. I don't really like to say 'I quit'. I'd rather just say 'I don't smoke or I'm not smoking right now'. I feel like there's more pressure if I quit. I like the idea of waking up every morning and just making the choice not to smoke. Sometimes it is hard and I think about different scenarios when a cigarette would taste so good. But I try to focus on that fact that it really didn't taste good. And to those who don't smoke it doesn't look or smell good. And the more I think about it and the kind of person I want to be, it becomes more and more clear, that what I thought I remembered wasn't true at all. It wasn't good. Anyway, sometimes it helps me to just think it through. Not to mention, it's cold outside! I didn't smoke in my new house or my new car and of course I couldn't smoke inside at work. My boyfriend quit with me this time, which is nice. Our kids love that we quit. I'm glad I can be a positive influence on them.
How long have you been a non-smoker?
3week(s)
What are your three favorite Quit Tips?
Nicotine Patch = No Cravings
Acknowledge that you want one, but that you're not going to have one
In the beginning, avoid your smoking hang outs at all costs!
What prompted you to quit?
It was my New Year resolution. I sat down on New Year's Eve and made a list of what I wanted to accomplish this year. Quitting was #1 on my list. I hated smoking. I felt guilty and like an outcast. I was always afraid people could smell me. I wanted to stop being a slave to my addiction.
How do you feel now?
I feel okay. Usually I don't think about smoking. Sometimes, though, the thought crosses my mind and I think "That would be nice. Oh well." It makes me feel kind of sad. And sometimes I forget that I quit! I'll walk buy the cigarette counter and think "Am I almost out? Do I need to pick up more?" And then I remember and kind of laugh to myself. I am glad I quit. I feel proud.
What words of wisdom/support would you like to pass on to others who are in the process of quitting or who are thinking about it?
Don't force yourself or let someone else force you. Wait until you decide you are ready. Don't get down on others that smoke. You are one step ahead of them, hopefully your positive influence will help them see how much better they can be. Hang in there, slowly you will win. It really is a battle. And the addiction really wants to beat you. It cheats and lies. But you know whats best for you.
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