..but, I smoked for YEARS; I don't think I can do this.
Many of us here smoked for 30-40-even 50- years. We successfully quit. You can, too,
..but, how will I deal with the stress/my anxiety?
How do you think people who don't smoke deal with it? If you know any, ask them! I take slow/deep breaths, going slower and deeper with each repetition, or call a friend, or do some toe touches, or take a break from the situation. Increase your exercise; it reduces anxiety. I became LESS anxious when I quit.
..but, I enjoy smoking!
You enjoy the hit of dopamine you get from it, UNTIL you need another and another and...
..but, what will I do after a meal?
At home, get right up from the table and start cleaning up, or go for a quick stroll. When eating out, treasure the fact you can savor that meal longer without needing a fix and participate in after dinner conversation instead of impatiently jonesing for your nicotine hit.
..but, will I ever be able to enjoy a beer again?
In time, YES! You can sub another cold drink and in time, your favorite beverage will go down just fine – and taste even better with your taste buds restored.
..but, I don't want to lose my best FRIEND!
Ask yourself if a best friend would conspire with a major, money driven industry to create an addict of you and continue to steal your money and your health for the sole purpose of profit. Did you know the industry added cough suppressants to negate your body' natural reaction to their poison?
..but, I don't want to gain weight!
It's true that you need to eat about 200 less calories when you first quit just to maintain your weight, but that will even out as your body adjusts. In the beginning, stock up on healthy snacks like grapes to freeze, rice cakes (add a small bit of peanut butter), almonds, fruit, carrot and celery sticks, pretzel rods, licorice, Fireballs, Sour Patch Kids, and some sugarfree mints or gum. Keep a bottle of cold water handy from which to sip. Increase your exercise to burn calories (with a bonus of mood improvement).
..but, how will I ever again be able enjoy sitting on my porch/deck?
Rearrange the furniture so the view is different. Add new cushions, a big plant or even a fountain with some of your smoke free savings. Treat yourself to a special iced tea or soda as you relax. Watch the clouds, listen to the birds, be PRESENT! Take some slow/deep breaths of fresh air.
There is never a good reason to keep smoking; there are only excuses. Don't be using one. Just DO it! You will be so glad you did, I promise!
Nancy
