8 Years!

[Ladybug--7-3-12]

 

Eight years ago I chose to stop smoking.

I educated myself about nicotine addiction.

I recognized that I was a nicotine addict.

I accepted that the only way out was to let my active addiction go dormant (& to never smoke again for it to stay that way forever).

I committed myself to the process ... the good, the bad, and the ugly of it.

I trusted that things would get better for me ... eventually ... if I just didn't smoke, so I kept my focus ahead.

I decided that since I already knew what it was like to live life as an active smoking addict that I wanted to finish the rest of my life smoke free.

And so I began ... 8 years ago today.

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One of the times I like to check back in is on my annual milestone in the hope that it may inspire someone who is quietly reading behind the screen feeling hopeless.  I understand.  That was me too.

If my time smoke free seems daunting to you (as it did to me in my early days) just remind yourself that if you have not smoked today then you have conquered the same day as me & everyone else who chose not to smoke today.  Today is the day that counts.

Self-talk is an important part of the process.  Remember to watch how you talk to yourself.  Use positive action words like I did writing this ... I chose, I educated, I recognized, I accepted, I committed, I trusted, I decided and I began.

Believe in yourself.  It is doable for you.  None of us who quit & are still quit are special snowflakes with super human powers.  We did the hard foundation building work at the beginning of our quits too & worked to change what smoking meant to us.  It gets easier.  Much, much easier.

I promise you that it is worth all the angst it takes to get to a new place of living in peace & gratitude from attaining and keeping a smoke free life.  I hope you choose it (and keep on choosing it) for yourself.  We all are worth a smoke free life.  Best Wishes.