I learned about what support can do...
The sun finally peeked out from behind the clouds and helped light the way to the Smoking Cessation Forum here at About.com just before my 2 week milestone. What an incredible blessing that was, and continues to be. I've learned how critical good support is. It has helped me make this quit the one that will last a lifetime. The wisdom of those who went before me taught me how to appreicate the value in persisting until I got clear of this tenacious addiction. Daily support from people who have gone through or are going through it with you is so very valuable. The collective whole of the group seems to have an energy that bolsters each of the individual's own resolve and will to continue. It's the general positive spirit that we all feel and benefit from that I'm talking about. It has helped me to embrace cessation wholeheartedly. I've come to understand that quitting is a process of gradual release from the addiction over time. Taking that one sentiment to heart has allowed me to "relax" into my quit. I learned through practice how to accept urges as they came along and then let them go. It wasn't easy at first, but I got the hang of it, and that shift in perspective away from "fighting" to maintain my smobriety made it all so much more comfortable.
Fostering what I think of as a "healthy aversion" to the habit has helped me to further cement my own resolve. I don't bother smokers who are not ready to quit, but I have no respect for the habit itself, or for smoker's rights in general. Tobacco will do no less than kill you if given the chance, and it needs to be seen for what it is.
Today I maintain my freedom by keeping my memory green...
I don't allow romantic thoughts of smoking rent-free space in my mind. I read and try to stay current on not only the risks of smoking, but what is going on in the world with regards to it. I stay involved with the Smoking Cessation Forum here at About. I was helped to find my freedom there, and I happily give back to the newcomers what was so generously shared with me.
As they say, "If you want to change your life, change your mind."
I've gotten into the habit of using gratitude on a daily basis. This new life I've created for myself is a precious gift that I cherish and nurture. I love my life so much more now that I'm not living it in a cloud of smoke. It's been said that gratitude unlocks the fullness of life, and I believe that. I used it as a tool to help remind me of my progress, and it has rewarded me with an increased awareness for all of the many blessings elsewhere in my life. The cigarette induced anxiety I suffered is gone, I'm delighted to say. Life is good.
To anyone wanting to quit, I would say, DO IT. Dig your heels in and go the distance. It is worth all of the effort it takes to do. It doesn't matter how hard the task is, the rewards returned to you will make it worthwhile. The initial work and discomforts of withdrawal are temporary. The freedom and richness of life that you'll discover will make you wonder why you didn't quit sooner. Don't waste any more time wishing. Take action and make your dreams a reality. Cessation truly is a gift beyond compare, and one that only you can give yourself.
Terry's Smoke Free Milestones:
Terry's 1 Year Milestone
Terry's 2 Year Milestone
Terry's 3 Year Milestone
Terry's 4 Year Milestone
Terry's 5 Year Milestone
