Description
Hi everyone.
I am 30 years old, and have been a pack a day smoker pretty consistently for the last 12 years. I've made what feels like a million quit attempts and not been successful, but as a friend keeps telling me, you're not a failure until you stop trying.
I am diagnosed bipolar with borderline (personality disorder) traits... this basically means I have a difficult time regulating my emotions. I am in therapy and on medication, however it's a long process and I still snap from time to time. If I snap at you, please know that I'm not intentionally trying to hurt you, it's just that I've lost control of my rationality for the moment. To help minimize this, I ask that you only give me advice when I ask for it, and that you do so in a supportive and empathetic way--the "tough love" approach tends to make me feel angry and rebellious. I am here for support and encouragement, and to offer others the same.
The core beliefs that I'm working on embracing are:
I am a good person, and do not need to punish myself with destructive behaviors such as smoking. I deserve to be healthy and happy.
I am capable of making positive changes in my life.
I am able to make it through difficult times without engaging in harmful behaviors, to myself or others.
And now for my list of "why quit?"
I've made a great deal of progress in many areas (emotional, career planning, relationships, physical health) and quitting smoking is an important accomplishment that I need to continue building my self esteem.
I've recently begun dating again, and want to smell nice, and be fully available (not thinking about how soon dinner will be over so I can go grab a smoke). This also applies to spending time with friends and family.
I dislike the smell, taste and feel of cigarette smoke.
Smoking has caused problems with my health, including having to be on cholesterol medication, and not being able to exercise, which is something I both desire and enjoy, and contributes to my overall health.
There are soooo many things I would rather be spending my money on.
Brief Description
30 years old, 10+ years smoking.
Website
No website in profile.
Location
Atlanta
Interests
cooking, TV, Reading
Skills
No skills in profile.
