You have joined us a bit late, but better late than never!
The most important thing you can do is to educate yourself on what nicotine does to your mind and body. To that end, I highly recommend Allen Carr's “The Easy Way to Stop Smoking.” This is an easy and entertaining read. Here is a link to a free PDF version of it:
As well, read the sections on this site, do the tracking and separation exercises, and read the blogs, responses and pages of folks you think might be helpful. You might also want to visit quitsmokingonline.com, and whyquit.com.
The idea is to distract yourself through the cravings. Don't let that thought rattle around in your head alone! A crave will last about three minutes whether you smoke or not. Go for a brisk walk, march in place, do a few jumping jacks, clean a drawer, do a crossword puzzle, play a computer game...Here are links to lists of 114 things to do instead of smoke if you need fresh ideas:
The conversation in your head CANNOT be: "I want a cigarette. No! But - I WANT a cigarette. NO!" Instead, it needs to be "I want a cigarette. Well, since I have decided not to do that anymore, what shall I do instead for the three minutes this crave will last?" Then DO it!
Stay close to us and ask for advice and support as you need it.
Welcome! You will find all the support you need to win right here. The elders (long term quitters) will post links and information to help you get startered.
Since you "have to do this" you know that the only thing that can stop you from getting it done...is you!! Read all the educational material, blog, read other people's blogs, stay busy, and keep a postitive attitude.
How's the first day going? I hope as well as can be expected. Hang close to the site and blog as much as you need to. I always found it to be a welcome distraction on the first days.
CONGRATULATIONS on your decision. Keep your eye on the prize of freedom. There's no better feeling and well worth the work it takes to get there!!
It takes the mindset that we aren't giving up anything...we are doing it because we want to and not signing up for a lifetime of deprivation but a lifetime of freedom...that is the personal journey no one can take for us...We will be here for you every step of the way! xo
I'm glad that you have decided to quit! Sticking around here can help. Also, reading Allen Carr's Easy Way to Quit Smoking can deprogram some of the unhelpful unconscious thoughts in your head. It has really helped me! Of course, this is only my 10th day, but it's going great! It does not have to be so difficult...
In the mean time, keep busy, and remember:
Just for today, I will not smoke. I will be patient and kind to myself and others. "NOPE, thanks, I don't need one!"
You can do this, and attitude counts! Welcome. Message me if you want.
You came to the right place for help and encouragement as you free yourself from cigarettes. Just stay close and remember...NOPE and HALT. One day at a time!
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