[seeker1950]

I've posted about this in the Health Support thread already, but I just wanted to share with you all that I have gone 4 days now without smoking. This doesn't sound like such a big step, I know, but it IS for me! I should probably look for an in-person support group locally, but, for now, doing this on my own. I have managed to go in the mornings without a cig, which has been a big thing for me with coffee for years. Then, going to work, teaching, I have become accustomed to going out on my lunch hour break, driving around the block for a cig in the car. As a deterrent to this, for three days, I put on a nicotine patch, but today I didn't need it. Then, my BIG smoking time, driving home from work, relieving stress, having a smoke driving home, and then again at home repeatedly, I am still relying on the patches. I've asked myself, "How damn hard can it be??? to quit this?" Well, it IS hard, though I've been through other many hard things.
I was reluctant to post about this, since I've failed so many times before, but I know I MUST quit.
Patty

[sabby]

(((((((((((( Patty ))))))))))))))

You haven't failed at this before....you were doing practice runs!! Everytime you attempt quitting, you learn something more about the process. I have heard drug addicts say that quitting smoking was harder than quitting the drugs.

The thing about cigarettes is that it's more than just a mind over matter thing...its an addiction and the emotional bond with cigarettes is so very hard to break.

I am sending you thoughts of strength and persistance to tackle this addiction. You Go Girl!!! (one of these days I'll quit again too)


sabby

[(JD)]

I think you are doing wonderfully!!!! It IS difficult, it IS a very addictive substance! Don't let the negative thoughts in, you are doing a good thing for yourself. Use the patches properly as you need to, you'll wean off them eventually, I'm sure.

I've read where adding excercise is another good thing, so instead of driving around the block like you used to, maybe you could walk some place, or up and down some stairs Sorry if I've forgotten if you can't.

You have NOT failed. Even if you tried before, you haven't failed...because you are still working on this!

Each time you tried, you got stronger, and yes, this time you can do it!

[bebop]

Patty that is great!! maybe I should try the patches again. I have quit on them with success before. you encourage me hon! you can do it!

[seeker1950]

Thanks, so much, Sabby and Sky...You are both angels!
I think I am on a good track this time! Hard and harder to quit after smoking since I began at 22!...That's 35 years...UGH!
I hope I can do it this time!
One thing in my favor is my new students for the new 9 weeks are lovely angels...such a surprise after feeling abused for the past 9 weeks, leaving work needing something to relieve the stress, aches and pains, etc.
Love
Patty