Hi Julie -
Please make this committment first: that you will come to this site every day and explore all it's nooks and crannies that contain people's stories. Because hidden within the stories are the signposts that will speak to you as an individual and show you each step you need to take next.
Quitting seems so daunting, frightening and difficult when viewed from a smoker's persepective. But it's one of those mysterious things, how different it appears when viewed from the other side, the perspective of the x-smoker. Yes, it did require planning and changing several aspects of my life, and yes, there were times in the early days when I couldn't think of anything else. Even so the process of quitting smoking is not nearly as bad as we imagine it will be. It is not physically painful. It does seem overwhelming at first because for a while you will probably feel cut adrift in an unfamiliar and not very comfortable world. But think about it. That feeling doesn't last. It comes to visit less and less frequently. Life goes on. You'll find you are the same person you were, only better.
I know you are capable of doing this, because believe me, if I can do this, anyone can! Have you made any definite plans about quitting? Such as: have you set a date? Are you reading books about quitting? Do you think you will use NRT (patches, gum, etc.)? Are you talking to you family and friends about quitting? Have you tried to quit before? I am now two months smoke free! I am so thrilled I can hardly express it.
As much as I can I will be here for you.
Blessings, Dharmagirl
