Welcome to our community!
I am sorry for your loss. It looks like he was far too young to be gone so soon. My sympathy.
Nicotine addiction is nicotine addiction - no matter the delivery device - and how to beat any of them is about the same. Every time you read :"cigarette" in the information I will give you, just sub "vape." I don't know what strength pods you are using, but you might begin by weaning yourself down if you are using a high mg one. Start with a lesser amount in, like, one in every four, then three, etc. until you are only using the smallest amount. That way the physical withdrawal should be more manageable. Make up your mind that you are going to get through the fogginess and other withdrawal symptoms one day at a time - and get through each day the best that you can. It's not going to be easy, but it IS doable!
I am thrilled that you have read“The Easy Way to Stop Smoking," done a bunch of reading, listed things you can do instead of inhaling vapor.
It will be informative if you do the tracking and separation exercises recommended here on the site. As you track each cigarette smoked, note its importance, and what you might do instead. Put each one off just a little to prove that you don't NEED a cigarette just because you think you do.
The idea is to change up your routines so the smoking associations are reduced. Drink your coffee with your OTHER hand in a place different from when you smoked. Maybe switch to tea for a bit. If you always had that first smoke with your coffee, try putting your tennies on right out of bed, going for a quick walk, then taking your shower and THEN your coffee! Rearrange the furniture in the areas you used to smoke so the view is different. Buy your gas at a different station. Take a different route to work. Take a quick walk at break time where the smokers AREN'T.
Here is a link to a list of things to do instead of smoke if you need some fresh ideas:
https://excommunity.becomeanex.org/blogs/Youngatheart.7.4.12-blog/2013/02/25/100-things-to-do-instea...
The conversation in your head in response to the "I want a cigarette" thought needs to be, "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. You will need to put some effort into this in the early days, but it gets easier and easier to do.
Stay close to us here and ask questions when you have them and for support when you need it. We will be with you every step of the way!
Nancy
