Occasional or social smoking is still smoking
I’m 50 and have been a “occasional/ social smoker” more or less since I was 17 with a few years/ months in between. I find it so hard to relate to most quitting support and materials as I smoke 5-10 a week max. I always feel so guilty about the damage I’m doing to my health but find it so hard to give up.
Welcome Kirsty-5. Such a pity and in some respects I agree, but you still need to bring any information that resonates with you from any source, and work on this aspect, your research shows, reasons why only, but this is a journey not a full stop.
You still seem to be accepting your position as a social smoker only, this acceptance is your mental capacity to explain to your body that it is OK to smoke for these reasons.
It is your own mental attitude which needs to change, at best it is a half hearted approach, it begins and ends with you, it may show you things you don't like about yourself but these are the very things you need to work on.
Have a look at the video "How to grow to be a Happy non-smoker" by NASIA DAVOS TedxUniversityofPiraeus The emphasis is on growth and Happiness for some of us me included, it is an emotional journey and this helped me to help myself.
Thanks so much for taking the time to respond softly40. I will check out the video. Sometimes it’s like I have two personalities arguing over whether to have a cigarette - the “good” one sees all the dangers and makes no excuses, while the “naughty” one is just as you say and seems to prevail. I’m going to have a REAL think about my mental attitude, I’m not taking myself seriously enough.
This was so useful and relatable - thanks so much softly40.
How to grow to be a Happy non-smoker" by NASIA DAVOS TedxUniversityofPiraeus
Face the truths about you and nicotine. It's harsh but true. You may think you are a social smoker just as an alcoholic wants to believe he is just having a social drink. You are addicted to nicotine. You were drugged. You were brainwashed. You are not alone. We understand and forgive ourselves and use the power in numbers and the knowledge given to take back control of our lives. You can too.
Thanks Happiness - understanding and forgiveness haven’t been part of the repertoire to date -just guilt and frustration with myself. Your perspective is really helpful.
Hi Kirsty-5
Please find the real reasons to Quit the smokes. Be certain that just 5 or 10 ciggs everyday is not ok, ESPECIALLY if you hate yourself for the "occasional fag"
Many have found the answer and the MINDSET to Quit for good by reading the book. Allen Carr's Easy Way To Stop Smoking its titled. Just $29 and I have saved over $2,000 in just 80 days. We dont need to do the math's do we. Its a bargain.