We are often asked how long it will be after a quit begins to be “THERE,” that place where cravings are gone, we feel at peace and no longer think of smoking. Some think it should be after a month or two. Others want it to be NOW for heaven's sake! We give guidelines, but just as every quit is unique, so is everyone's journey.
I was reminded of this at my 12 day check-up after surgery to implant plates and screws to repair both a broken elbow and wrist. I have been carrying around a 15 pound plaster cast and was ready to be “THERE!” I fully expected to leave the office with maybe a small wrist and small elbow brace. Imagine my disappointment when they made a NEW full arm to hand splint – to be kept on for ANOTHER four weeks at least.
I was so upset until I realized how unrealistic my expectations, in fact, were. Although it has felt like months because I hate to be inactive, it has only been TWELVE days!
Lesson to be learned? All the wanna's and need to's in the world are not going to make the quit journey any shorter or bones heal any faster.......and if we just hang on to give it the time it takes, we will make it to THERE!
(and at least this splint is held in place with Velcro straps so I can take breaks to move it a bit and let it breathe)
Hang in there!
Nancy
