Today is the day

Today I plan to quit smoking for the third time. The last time I gave up in January and lasted six weeks. It was wonderful to feel free and clean and not driven to find places where I could smoke.

This time I plan to have my last smoke at 1:30pm ceremonially. Reminding myself of the reasons why. Getting rid of the ashtray and saturating the remainder of my packet and butts. Having a shower, putting on clean clothes, clean my teeth and go cold turkey.

i do not believe I am addicted to smoking, but addicted to nicotine (I would not smoke a cigarette if it had no nicotine in it) therefore I won't be using any substance that has nicotine in it.  I plan to suck on a water bottle whenever I feel the urge and to step out of what I am doing to focus on my thinking at that time. I am aware that the first five days I will have to consciously do this. I have friends praying for me and intend to hook into the quit line. 

My concern is stressful situations and believing that a smoke will help me through. I have come to Australia and stepped out of my normal life for a week to help with this. A kind friend has allowed my to use their house. I am aware that I will feel insecure, uncomfortable and restless at times but know from experience that these feelings will pass. I am also aware that one smoke leads to another. 

So, my note to self for today: is stay focused and stick to the plan....