Over 2 years smoke free
I am over two years smoke free and feel so grateful for many things, this forum is one of them. It has helped me in staying on track. I have tried many times to stop smoking , my sense of self- worth took a strong downward turn during these failures, because I have not failed at many things in life.
I often wondered what was holding me back from achieving the result I wanted. It wasn’t my determination I have loads of that, I eventually realised it was my own belief system that I had in place at the time. I have been a bit of a Nerd for philosophy in my life along with other pursuits, and the concept of FOREVER did not sit well within my own reasoning.
This needed some work on my thought process, and I have now got more understanding of NOPE (not one puff ever) I initially put down not one puff for today only NOPFTO. I then opted for more knowledge of Nicotine, and a greater understanding of myself through various reading and videos. I read lots of posts online. Happiness was the only person who responded to me back in those days, and I was so grateful for this response that I eventually became the person to respond to others. The best video for me was “How to grow to be a happy non smoker” by NASIO DAVOS ………this gave me the clearest reasons why and more importantly gave me permission to forgive myself, since I was emotional wreck in every instance. I needed something to blame though other than myself, and the blame was awarded to Nicotine first, because of its addictive nature. Second was the Government who took my taxes and Third was the Manufacture and Selling Agents.
I am living the way I should always be living, Now, I just practice being grateful every night, and joyful every morning, I am retired now, but my Artwork is going strong and I have had sales and Exhibitions throughout those two years, in fact I am busier than ever. NOPE (not one puff ever)
Congratulations on your two years Softly. I am happy that I may have helped to have you see things in a different light this time around. Yes, forever is a scary word but you found what prevented you from accepting being a non-smoker and dealt with it commendably. Even better, you chose to stick around and greatly help others to meet their dreams as well.
I quit easily cold turkey while you stuggled with Champix. All quits,, experiences and encouragement are extremely important in helping someone identify. I wish we had more members who take such an avid interest in the well being of others. I quite enjoy my time spent here and feel joy every time another person has escaped from the vile addiction. I know you feel the same way Softly. Good Luck with your art. Unfortunately , I am without such talent.
Congratulations softly on being stopped over 2 years mate,we are so lucky to have you inspiring us on this site,with your wealth of knowledge I’m sure you’ve inspired many to quit too along the course of time,I smiled when you said you painted,I discovered watercolour about a year and a half ago,and put some of my pictures on the site doodlewash,but I haven’t painted since I stopped smoking,I’m not ready to yet because I used to smoke more when I painted lol but in time I will paint again,I’m not very good but was improving😀have a great day Softly,Remember NOPE,NOT ONE PUFF EVER lol
Two year anniversary, great going girl!
Like you, I've had my fair share of lengthy Quits, eventually ending in failure. Those failure's did hurt my ego and my self confidence. I'm above that now at 362 day's smoke free, Yay!
I couldn't quite stay Quit, because, my own belief centre or system didn't quite match-up with my soul or heart, perhaps? I touched on the subject in one of my stories. I cant recall which story, as I'm moving forward now and a little bit reluctant to look back.
Anyway, congratulation's softly.
Thanks PuffNoMore there are a lot of beliefs which I had decided were absolute, this does make you more aware of your own faulty thinking. We are all a work in progress and I hope I am a better person for this. No don't look back keep on with your own hopes and dreams for a better life.
A word to New Chapter, I have been over 40 years in the Art world one way or the other, and yes found it difficult with painting, but I started with Sculpture so it wasn't too bad for me. As for procrastinating, that is part of the process, but dont procrastinate for too long. Pick another medium, this will give you the catalyst for learning. This is a lifelong wonder of learning on many levels Go for it now.
Congratulations friend! I agree, this forum has helped me quite a lot too. Practicing gratitude works wonders.
Thanks for the reply softly,I’ve just painted my best watercolour yet my friend,I like it that Mitch I’ve framed it and put it on the wall for a while,I wish we could post pics on here I’d show you it lol
Thanks Robn, I hope you are still going strong. Yes I am spoiling myself, but not so much in food at the moment, I can buy the best of other things though, and I love my home, where I live, my dog and my Art practice. My socializing is ok too, now that we can get together in a fashion during Covid.
Hi Kennie, I know you are doing well, and I will be happy to get to your stage too. Apart from learning to alter my thinking this Quit has taught me many things about myself which I am grateful for. Thanks for reading.
So pleased New Chapter, I am with a Group who exhibit online, perhaps you might like to join one or start your own where you live. I'm glad you are happy with your work, Watercolor is not an easy medium. Yey, I have seen some wonderful Art pieces in wood. We have some talented people where I live.
When you try this out, think of whether you want to do Sculpture or craft first, we have some lovely woods in Australia. Keep going strong in your great achievement of not smoking, we can do both.
Thankyou new chapter,I am active with a watercolour group,getting advice and tips as I go and there are some special talents on our group too,every day I go on it fills me with inspiration,when I have a go at carving I’m going to try a sculpture,I’d like to try carving a Buddha,I will never smoke again softly,I don’t hardly think about smoking any more,until I smell it or talk about it,I think I’m definitely free from my addiction😀
Hey there, I was just doing my annual update and was reminded when I looked at my post last year you had commented we were tracking on a similar path. Hope you have had a successful 3rd year quit like me. Let us all know. Cheers