My life as a smoker
I started smoking when I was 13 years old. It was the "adult" thing to do and it was considered cool. By the time I was 14 or 15, I was a seasoned smoker. I guess I smoked a pack per day back then? Just can't recall...
Why and how I quit smoking
Because of a family history of heart disease, I began to feel like I might be playing Russian roulette with my life by the time I turned 45.
My elderly Mom had been wanting me to quit smoking for years. One day she brought it up and I told her I would quit if she would make a tape recording of her singing. She is an awesome singer but has no confidence to share her voice openly. I never thought she would do it, but the very next day she presented me with a tape! I had to live up to my promise; I quit cold turkey within the month.
Advice
- I had to prepare mentally for about a month before I quit smoking.
- I prepared to own up to my own crankiness during the nicotine withdrawal phase.
- I smoked my last cigarette one night before I went to bed, knowing it was the last one I would ever smoke.
- I allowed myself to grieve and cry for the first several days - to mourn the loss of cigarettes in my life.
- I listened to my iPod constantly!
- It was easier than I thought to quit.
- Chewing gum took the place of cigarettes.
- One thing I'd do differently - I'd fill the void with exercise right away! I gained 25 lbs and am still trying to lose the weight!
Terry Martin, Smoking Cessation Guide, says:
Congratulations, Sandee! The work you did to build a strong foundation for your quit program helped you foster a winning mindset that propelled you forward. Maintain it with a daily dose of gratitude and your freedom will continue to expand in ways that may surprise you.Thanks for the useful tips you've shared - I have no doubt your story will inspire others to quit smoking, and will bring a warm smile of pride to your mom's face!
