I went out for a beer with a co-worker after work yesterday. Driving home later that night I had an absolutely INTENSE craving. This startled me; I'm at day 55 and clearly no longer in withdrawal. I couldn't understand where it came from.
Then it hit me: this was the first time I had gone out since I quit smoking. So this was the first time I got hit with the after-drinking trigger.
My number one trigger is driving. I have resisted that one at least 100 times, so that particular habit is broken (or at least fading). I haven't had to resist the after-drinking trigger before, so it was full-color. It will probably take me a few more times of pushing through that trigger before it fades to nothing.
I was pondering other situations where I got hit with a trigger "out of the blue"; like going to a certain store. I used to smoke in that parking lot (trees for shade). The first time I went back there after I had been quit maybe a week, was really tough. I was practically hyperventilating.
The lesson for me is to be aware. I don't know how many triggers I have out there, laying in wait, ready to pounce.
The price of liberty is eternal vigilance.
PT
Day 56
Oh yes...many triggers out there ... some will say out of nowhere they will come after so much time quit....I had one at 150 days quit...when I came out of the Doctors ... Can you believe it? Out of nowhere it was so strong and I drove off talking to myself...it was so uncomfortable, but soon it faded...you are learning so much on your journey...Congratulation on 55 days quit...keep vigilant and keep enjoying Life...Happy Wednesday ~ Colleen 296 DOF