6 months smoke-free: Never thought I would get this far!

I want to share my story with other people trying to quit in the hope that it will inspire them to do the same…..

Today marks six months since my last cigarette and I never thought I would get this far.

When I first decided I wanted to quit, I didn’t anticipate how hard it would be.

The first few weeks were a living nightmare. I was angry, I cried, I was depressed.

There was no joy in anything. There was a fog and a dark cloud and seriously, at times I was scared I was going crazy.

Learning to cope, I turned to food and put a few kilos on. Then I turned to chewing gum- my new addiction.

I found music, going for a walk or calling a friend were all distractions I needed to make things easier.

I also avoided places I associated with smoking. (Haven’t been on my balcony at home since I quit).

Didn’t visit a pub for a few weeks and stopped having coffees in the morning.

As time went on, the cravings became weaker and the thought of wanting to smoke entered my mind less and less.

I still think about smoking all the time, and a recent holiday to Greece really tested my resolve – but it was easy to say no.

Since quitting I have participated in a 12-week fitness and boxing challenge and competed in my first boxing match.

I am so much fitter, and love going to the gym – and have lost the post-quit kilos.

I was a pack a day smoker: Never did I think I would get this far – it just goes to show how strong will power can be.

I don’t want to get all cheer-leader on you all – but you can seriously do it!

Just eat if you want to eat. Cry. Do whatever it takes.

Yes, it’s really, really hard – but it will get better, I promise =)