We live in a world of comparison. Kids and teens are comparing themselves to their favorite social media icon or pop star, all while developing feelings of inadequacy- “why can’t I be like them”?
Are adults much different?
Stay with me on this. Often as humans we seek approval and reassurance in most things we do. It is built into our society and some will say it is all part of the human condition. We seek approval and acceptance in how we perform at our jobs, relationships, exercise, eating well, and etc. Then we compare…. Is what I am doing on target with my counter parts?
What about the ability to stop using tobacco? What do you think?
The reason I bring this up is so often I hear this “Why can’t I quit?” “What is wrong with me?” “My dad threw his pack out the window and never touched his cigarettes again!”
Nothing is wrong with you, everyone’s journey is different! It’s the curse of the human condition that is driving us to assimilate, compare, and judge ourselves when we set definite expectations.
So I encourage you to cut yourself some slack, this is a lifestyle change, one that does not happen overnight!
The path to recovery is not linear.
To learn more visit quit journeys - here you will find other’s unique experiences
Virginia Fitch-Braun, MS
NDC Counselor/CTTS
