Once a smoker, always a smoker...
Ever heard a non smoker say they would love tonight up and inhale cigarette smoke when stressed or celebrating or doing whatever. Why would they? They have never experienced such an addiction to keep them going. After nearly 8 years quit, I have read enough warnings from fellow quitters on this site who warn against having that one puff. It leads to the downward spiral and a certain path to returning to the addiction. I know I will never be truly cured but will continue to resist any stupid temptations. I will always be a smoker, just choose not to light up. It was so easy to start, so why is it so hard to stay quit?
Congratulations on 8 years smoke free Lia. While we may always be addicts and just one puff can set us right back to square one, we do well to heed the warnings of others who tempted fate. It does get easier with time, but I also think it is wise to check in to this site regularly to remember our past and the future we strove for. Just remember NOPE, Not One Puff Ever!
Hi Lia I think it can be really hard to stay quit because it is a very deeply ingrained habit in every aspect of that word. It’s a mindset that needs to change into the positive side of being smoke free. There is nothing good about smoking other than the Illusion that it helps with stress and anxiety and the like. It doesn’t. It is a powerful addiction that you have to overcome with your own strength and willingness to learn and grow in your strength and become confident.
That's awesome congrats. Although in my case, the two times when I had 2 separate unsuccessful quits for 1 and 2 years was when I told myself that I am a smoker who chooses not to smoke. I succumbed to the addiction only after one puff because I was still a smoker in my mind. The last quit 6 years ago proved successful when I convinced myself that I am no longer a smoker plus NOPE.
But whatever works for you is the way to go.
Cheers
Hi Lia
Your question will always have validity,. Because only an experienced,,,,fully rusted-on,. heavily addicted and probably long-term (EX) smoker or smoker can answer?
Let's hear from those still smoking, hey?
Proudly "I don't smoke".
However, sometimes I can feel THE Pull.
I've done enough damage and learned the hardest way to never let one puff back into my life ever again.
Great post Lia in the wild, wild west, thank you.
Well done Lia...coming up 8 yrs for me also in Sept...
I am still going strong with no slip ups...
The price of those sticks now is sooooo expensive....