The steps below speak to me today.
I think all along I have surrounded myself with non-smokers (that have never smoked) and smokers. This site has provided me with a support system I have never had. I am so grateful it brings tears to my eyes. Smoking is so normalized in American culture. It's going to be hard to watch movies, be around certain friends and family, going to see live music. At least they don't have smoking commericals and ads anymore.
I have paraphrased some steps from the book cited below:
1. ACTIVELY ENGAGE WITH THE CONTENT. Read, listen, think critically (reflection). Reflection has always been something I have avoided. I can read and listen, but taking that time to think is what really brings the message home.
2. PERSONALIZE & ADAPT TO YOUR NEEDS. Ask, "What does this have to do with my life?" Sometimes I am distracted by my thinking of the "big picture" of shared views or feelings and I loose sight of my own struggle. I have been known to reach out to others in need when I myself am going without. My grandmother's words still ring true, "Charity starts at home".
3. PRACTICE & REHEARSAL. "Is the effort worth the outcome?" new skills--awkward & time consuming I believe the time is plenty worth it. I have spent 8 years getting to the point I am at now and I will spend the rest of my life in a state of awareness. I will be aware of what I can control.
4. SUPPORT SYSTEM. This has been a missing link that thanks to EX I have filled.
Stress Management and Prevention : Applications to Daily Life (2nd Edition)
Kottler, Jeffrey A. A. Chen, David D. D., Taylor and Francis: Florence, KY, USA; 08/2011
1. Actively engage with the content
