I am combining the check ins this week because anyone in NML and anyone who is not yet in the 6% club has not gone through a Thanksgiving holiday as an ex-smoker…..until now!
This week’s topic: Holiday Triggers
What makes you crave a cigarette? Is it a cup of coffee? A drink? Talking on the phone? To quit smoking forever you should identify your smoking triggers. Every year the holidays arrive. Now that you have gotten your first (or more) month(s) under your belt, avoiding holiday relapse triggers can seem daunting. Have you thought about holiday triggers? Why not share your potential holiday triggers? There may be a trigger that one of your fellow NMLers didn’t think of until you posted about it. Maybe someone has a similar experience.
In No Man’s Land, you’ve come a long way, but still have a long way to go. The routine cravings are gone but the surprise cravings can knock you to your knees. Your family and friends think you should be “over it” while you still feel quite fragile sometimes. Your relationships with smoking friends/family may be feeling strained. Your inner junkie is still around, still whispering to you, and the temptation to give in can be every bit as strong as it was in your first few days.
But here’s the good news. In these same 100 days, for most people, your circulation has improved substantially, walking has become easier, and your overall lung function has increased noticeably. Sinus congestion, fatigue, and shortness of breath have decreased. Your body's overall energy has increased. The roller coaster is smoothing out, and you are feeling calmer and stronger overall. Good things are happening! (Courtesy of @sarahP)
Click here to read Dale’s helpful blog about No Man’s Land:https://excommunity.becomeanex.org/groups/best-of-ex/blog/2011/05/24/no-mans-land-days-30-to130-appr...
Click here to read what to expect in the first four months: /blogs/jonescarp.aka.dale.Jan_2007-blog/2011/06/26/what-to-expect-in-the-first-four-months
Checking in here will help you get through NML and on your way to the first year where you can celebrate being in the 6% Club and graduate to eventually become an Elder!
Please let me know if you are interested in posting the NML Weekly Check In. I am happy to continue it, share it, or pass it to the nEXt EXer in NML who is ready, willing, and able.
. So listen up people!!! Don't be thinking only of yourself if the urge hits. Not only will you be sorry the next day, you will make Tom sad! Think of the guilty conscience that will give you! 
