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First Month

Hey everyone! I notice that there are a number of people here, like me, who seem to be in that crucial first month of a quit. How is everybody doing? What are some positives you’re seeing? What are some of your struggles?
For me, it has been going pretty well (day 9). I’ve had some struggles that I think others are experiencing. Like Rosie mentioned, having alcohol for the first time was a little challenging. I went out for a Christmas party last night and had a few beer, and my inhibitions went slightly down and a cigarette seemed more desirable then when I’m sober. Worse was the fact that everybody there smoked. Still, made it through. The other big struggle is simply the automatic things. I’ll get in my car and roll my window down and automatically reach in my pocket for a smoke and sometimes this leads to a bit of a craving.
Positively; I’ve noticed much clearer breathing. I’ve noticed food tasting better, and my teeth getting whiter. Haha and also that there’s more money in my account!
Every positive is hugely motivating and when I focus on those it makes the few cravings pass.

If thinking about all those positives keep you motivated then that is what you do!
Great job TryingTK. I am proud of you for making it through such tempting situations so early in your quit. Only you know you and you may not have felt a choice in going being concerned , but the fact is that you did go and you did not smoke and I gather you enjoyed it in spite of your limitation.
It is funny that you were jealous of the smokers, when the fact is that they are jealous of you. How many times when you heard someone say they quit you instinctively felt regret that you hadn't? Jealous that they could even attempt it when you simply weren't ready? The difference now is that you are ready and wanting this more than you ever have before. The fact that you joined a quit group helps because you feel more accountable for one, and that you don't feel alone, in the dark and afraid of what's to come. I am sure that a lot of your fears if not all have been allayed. Even the one of what happens in a social situation with alcohol.
So very proud of you. Keep up the great attitude. Compare notes, although everyone is different and will get there when they are ready. Only you know yourself best!

Hi all!
I too had a big day yesterday. Party in the afternoon and then out for an evening at a club for dinner. IBI'mgladvwe talked about alcohol and quitting TryingTK yesterday. It gave me the heads up to THINK before I went.
Both these occasions I had thoughts of what I would usually do - but this time it was different. I didn't smoke with others. I just remembered that I used to smoke at these times. I was OK. It felt nice not to be nicking off anywhere planning my smoke exit.
When my friends came back after their cigarette they really smelled of smoke. It wasn't nice.
I spoke to 2 other smokers of my journey yesterday an they are keen to follow my
lead after Christmas. Good I hope they do and feel good about themselves like me.
It's just getting used to doing things differently now. It's not worse because I'm not going for a cigarette just different.
I told myself you're a Non Smoker now and I USED to smoke in this situation but no more.
My son is 7 days smoke free. He's way ahead though he isn't going the patch route like me but has gum to stave off any pangs.
So 2 less people on this earth now don't smoke because of this WEBSITE and our desire nor to smoke cigarettes anymore.
How good is that????
I'm not going to smoke ever again and out of all ex smokers so glad TryingTK that you are smoke free too. We're EX SMOKERS now and just need time and understanding to adjust to that.
Doesn't mean we don't think about smoking because it ruled our lives minds and every waking moment it just means we're doing it differently. There's no way I'm going to DAY 1 again. Come too far forward..
I think Rosie is getting there too with our help and support. It's good to talk out your feelings and struggles with someone who understands. Go ROSIE!👍😍🙋♀️

Hi TK
Hows it going?
I may not be currently qualified to be giving advice here? I have had periods throughout my life of total abstinence from smoking many times, from 2 and half years , 18 months, 1 year and even 55 days last year. And I didnt start smoking until I was 21! I;m only 53 y/o now and I have COPD.
I have a lung that is damaged beyond repair, thankfully the other lung is only slightly scared, .
Going back to your previous story about the envy that you feel when others are smoking. I, would think that pity for the smokers is more appropriate.
Just reminding you to get through to January without debate in your mind, because, smoking is bad for your lungs, your mind and your hip pocket.

Thanks everyone for the words of encouragement! Day 11 today, and so far so good.
Happiness- thank you for saying that you’re proud of me! It definitely helps thinking that I was always envious of people who’d said they’ve quit smoking. More and more I’m starting to feel bad for the people still puffing away.
Pisces- that’s so great about you and your son! I’m hoping to motivate some people around me as well. I’m trying to show them that it doesn’t have to be so bad. Like you said, always good to get in the right mindset going into situations that you know will be tough. How are you doing now?
Red- lack of long arms aside, the virtual pat on the back is very nice, thank you.
Puff- so far so good! I appreciate you sharing that, about your age. I did not start smoking until 23 and sometimes in moments of weakness I tell myself, I started late, my body could handle a few years. I appreciate the warning and hope that your health is on the way up.

Congrats on 11 days TK! I too still roll my window down in the car subconsciously and have to remind myself that I don't smoke anymore! I'm not sure this action causes a craving but it definitely makes me think about how this was a time where I USED to smoke. I now keep regular gum EVERYWHERE in case I need it. Lately, that's been a lot! I agree with your positives, better breathing, whiter teeth, and of course the money we are saving. Also feel as though I am spending my time more productively, instead of sitting on my porch smoking, I am now taking my lab for a walk.
My father in law is a life long smoker and I saw him for the first time the other day since I quit. I couldn't get over how much he stunk after coming in from a smoke. I'm so glad I don't smell like that anymore!
Pisces, so happy to hear your son quit as well!

Yes Mr. Nicotine really did a number on us didn't he. We couldn't even the smell our own stink, let alone accept that we were addicts. Wow.
We have had our eyes open, found a need within to quit for good. In doing so we found confidence throught friendships and support. We begin to feel good about ourselves and hope for a brighter future. We also give hope to others and some follow our example. We should all feel very proud to be on this journey to freedom from nicotine.

Staying off alcohol was a big help for me. I've been lucky enough to never have had a smoke in three years. Keep strong