I've been lurking around a bit, this is my first post on your forum and am compelled to respond to your post.
I quit smoking 4 years ago after having smoked for 36 years (two packs a day). I took up quilting to keep my hands busy. It worked as I am smoke free for four years. I now have:
1. Money to buy fabric : )
2. I can join swaps as my fabric is not smoke filled
3. Am healthier
4. Have used that energy that i used to use standing outside smoking to fill my home with lovely hand made items.
5. Its a long list of benefits.
Nothing feels as good as not smoking cigarettes, it has been a heavy burden that I no longer carry with me.
Good luck to you in your journey. Count your days, build on each smoke free day. When it gets difficult and you want to give up just google (images) buergers disease , lung cancer, oral cancer and make yourself look at the pictures. ITs harsh...but it is what worked for me...also red hot candies and black licorace.