There are so many newbies, that I can’t keep up with all of you. If I haven’t personally welcomed you, WELCOME. if you need help I am here cheering you on. It is good to see that you have forged friendships and created bonds because that’s what it takes, towing the line together. It is much easier together than doing this “quit thing” alone. So many of you are so fired up, you keep me motivated. It's good to read the encouragement that is among you all. It makes the Elders work a lot easier. lol Just remember quitting is a journey, not a race or a marathon it does not end BUT is the beginning of something so wonderful and more powerful than I have time or words to express. There is no finish line. This quit thing is a “new life” that get better. So be like the turtle, pacing yourself one day at a time being persistent, determined to persevere, no matter what NOPE. Not one puff ever
It doesn’t matter how many badges you acquire or the number of groups you start or join because those things will come when and if you are doing what is necessary to NOPE. Staying smoke free is the prize. So keep your eye on the prize and don’t be tricked by that little guy on the shoulder telling you that "just one" is okay. One puff will do you IN and END a perfect quit quickly.
It is easier to quit than to stay quit so it is very important to learn how to protect it. I don’t want to bust anybody’s bubble like mine was when I was told it is great to be confident but don’t become complacent and think that you are not vulnerable. In order to stay smoke free you have to Plan Prepare Practice to Protect. Relearn what to do when you have to deal with feelings of Hunger, Anger, Loneliness, or just being Tired. Know these simple feelings can be confused with triggers. "HALT" So have to Plan Prepare Practice to Protect. Learn techniques to relieve stress. Read Study Relearn. Education is the key to a successful quit.
Stay EXcited about your quit but be like the turtle keep a steady pace moving forward one step at a time. Slowly but surely you will have success. Hang tough, stay close don’t give up Plan Prepare Practice to Protect.
A little extra reading material for the turtles to help Plan Prepare Practice to Protect.
https://excommunity.becomeanex.org/blogs/ShawnP-blog/2013/08/11/foundation-for-a-successful-quit
http://www.helpguide.org/articles/stress/stress-management.htm.
I am a nonsmoker with 663 DOF it is doable.
