Today marks 5 years since I stopped smoking. I still can't believe I lasted past the hell in the very beginning and I know I'll never pick up a death stick again. After 5 years free I did get some bad news that I have lung disease. Still waiting on test results and getting a prognosis and it's scary. It's not COPD or cancer thank god but it's still a disease and it's all from smoking.
I usually try to write something inspiring on my quit anniversary. Something to help others. This year my message is simple, STICK WITH IT NO MATTER HOW HARD IT GETS. Nobody said this was going to be easy but nothing great ever is. The secret is mindset. If you go into this 'hoping' to quit then you lower your expectations for yourself. You've just set yourself up with an out. You must believe in yourself and trust that you have what it takes to be a non-smoker. If we set the bar too low it's easy to step over and relapse. Set small, attainable goals like the daily pledge, if you want to smoke delay the action for a set time and before time's up reaffirm another delay. Take baby steps where you need to, you can do leaps later. I did research on how cigarettes are actually made which appalled me and that helped a ton. I discovered you're not smoking tobacco leaves, it's actually a slurry that is pressed into sheets and then shredded. I highly encourage doing your own research on what goes into your smoke/vape of choice. My final piece of advice is to stay on Ex with these wonderful people! They are your rock when you need it, very compassionate, full of great tips, tricks, and advice, and just like a large supportive family. I couldn't have quit without them.
I wish all of you along in your journeys the best. You can and will quit! You must believe that. If this woman can quit after 30+ years so can all of you. Just keep NOPE at the forefront, your trust in yourself highly, and a close ear to the folks here, and stick with the quit no matter how hard it gets (it really does get easier) and you'll have 5 years under your belt before you know it. Thank you to all of those who have and continue to help me along my quit journey. I am forever grateful for all the support. Keep up the great work to all!
Julie
