First of all, I think EVERYONE here on EX is special in their own way. There are a TON of different personalities on this site just as there are on any other.
Taking what you need from each post/blog and leaving the rest , I am finding, is the best way to handle uncomfortable situation in here, I am finding.
Some people are just more up front about their suggestions to help others quit or stay quit. Others are still supportive but perhaps not as vocal. Some are very passionate in their desire to help new quitters move along and stay strong with their quit while others, whom are resilient in their quit offer their hope and praise for your quits in more gentle undertones.
However it is done due to the large diversity of personalities on EX, I feel safe to say that everyone on this site is supporting each other in the ways the support was given to them. And it worked. While we are all different, its so good to read all the different methods and advice given because perhaps one of those ideas or suggestions WILL CLICK with the new person coming in.
Sometimes 'feelings' take over and we forget the purpose of why we are here r how we got here. I can't speck for everyone but personally I was sick and tired of being sick and tired of smoking. I received TONS of constructive advice when I failed several times with my quit at the beginning. It hurt, yes....but I also knew those same people were really right. After all, they are taking the time to be here relentlessly and not giving up on me and pushing me to open new doors to see why I kept failing. There advice, although it hurt to hear it, was right ON SPOT.
That was me 2 and a half years ago. I realized I had to really toughen up and quit playing with my quit if I wanted what they had...Freedom from addiction.
That being said I am more aware now than ever of circumstances and environment that surrounds me and I will protect my quit no matter what. I worked very hard to be 933 days quit. I have no desire to go back to day one.
I tend to take words very personally, so I have a very thin shell and it does not take much to make me feel bad. I think a lot of that is due to a very bad start in life...and perhaps I will always have that insecure shell. But I am a stronger person each day. I can see so many wonderful people on this site who have stuck around for years to help me maintain my quit and yours. They don't have to, but they CHOOSE to.
Like I said , everyone has a different personality and a different way to present their thoughts. Maybe their thoughts are not for you but maybe, just maybe they WILL help another person, therefore thats why we always say, take what you need and leave the rest.
It worked for me and it can work for you if you allow it. God Bless
Missy
