moreland

And one day, a year or so down the road, you will realize you have NOT even thought about cigarettes or smoking "in ages" and at that point you KNOW you have broken your habit. Keep going--one day at a time. Been there, done that about 30-40 years ago.

GladGrams

A huge congratulations! This is a "1 day at a time" process for a long time. With each hour/desire/day/week - you will feel a greater sense of "control" over your own life.

I used to teach a smoker's quit clinic at a hospital.

After 10 days the nicotine is washed out of your system, so after that it is ALL behavioral/ habit breaking stuff

Plan ahead for those "favorite times to smoke" and have your straws to suck through (this produces relaxing breathing) or toothpicks ready. I remember having no idea what a nonsmoker did with their hands after a meal or talking on the phone or with a glass of wine. ooooh those were the hardest time.

Do NOT substitute candy for cigarettes! Wt gain is part of the quit process and adding extra calories is a killer.

Watch out for mind games (for a long time to come) The mind tries to persuade you that "need" a cigarette or you will not be able to deal with a stressful situation. That's a lie or the whole world would be smoking.

GOOD LUCK! You are entitled to feel successful. :-) :thumbup:

Sheree from Chicago

I'm so proud of you!!!!!!

Just-Lee

BIG CONGRATS!!!

decky

Way to go!! You now know that you can do it and not give up the fight.

nanac

Although I am not a smoker, I understanf how hard it is to want something so badly ( for me, the addiction is for Pepsi) when you're trying to give it up.
As a nurse, I also know that it is just as hard to give up nicotine as it is to give up "hard drugs".
So, congratulations on being strong, and keep up the good work! BTW, my daughter used to be a smoker until she got pregnant, then gave it up cold turkey. After a few weeks, she started noticing that everything smelled funny. She went on a major cleaning blitz, shampooed carpet, drapes, upholstery, etc. Once she got the smell out, she never went back.

Craftygirl

Well done.

sjdal

I used to go for a walk when I thought I had to give in to the urge. I consider myself an addict and know if I ever pick up another cigarette, I will be a smoker again. I love being smoke-free for ten years. You will make it!!!

katcox

I am so glad to hear that, way to go girl! Yeah, I agree on the smell, I still can't stand to be around it. and can smell a smoker 2 blocks away. LOL I just wish they knew.
My son did enlighten me He grew up around it and so did I ,so we didn't really realize how it smelt and on our clothes and hair. I love smelling fresh every day. and you will too.

munchkinmama

Prayers to you to keep up the good work.