Stories and experiences by: softly40

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 dete...

I hadn't realized I am one year quit today, this month is also my Birthday so I have two good reasons to celebrate. I am planning a trip next week to see my family in Queensland and I am also taking a couple of friends with me. Looks like it might be for good this time. Good Luck all you fellow quitters and newbies, welcome aboard the Plane ride and be happy to jog along with lots of jingles in y...

I just need to say Happy Christmas to each and everone of you. I cannot believe how long I have stayed smoke free without even one puff. Staying close to the forum. Helping others along. Looking at How to be a happy smoker by Nasios Davos. Reading loads of literature. Experimenting with various Mantras. All of these things have helped me along the way. Top one: A strong belief in myself.

I cant believe I am 200 days smoke free, I still have a thought now and then, but I think it could be because I am now trying to loose the few extra kilos, less sugar and less carbs, I still use them for rewards so will need to dole them out to myself for a bit. The main thing is I have had a few big challenges throughout this nearly 7 months and have done very well so far. Here is to another 7 m...

These are some of the reasons I adopted during my numerous attempts of quitting. PLEASE add or subtract your own WHAT NON SMOKERS CAN EXPECT 1 The return of your confidence and courage. 2 Freedom from the slavery. 3 Not having to go through life suffering the awful black shadow at the back of your mind (or even your body.) 4.More self respect (Not being intensely aware of others de...

Hi Everyone, at last 150 days smoke free, I couldn't wait for 200 days to tell you all. I have learned many things including being the first time on any forum. I did come back refreshed from my holiday and got stuck right into my new voluntary position (devising a programme and managing people) It went OK but I had very little sleep the night before. I can vouch for the learning of meditation...

Hello everyone, I am back from the Gold Coast, and Whitsunday Islands,where I saw family and friends in Queensland. No I didn't smoke this time! Before; During; and After. It looks like I have improved 100% from last holidays. I did have a thought about one when I was relaxing with my dear friends and a glass of wine, but it was only a fleeting thought. I had no time to think about it when I got ...

My own attempts have had had many positive outcomes in my life for the good, but with each failure I was left with the feeling of guilt and being totally inadequate. How was it I could achieve so much with my new thoughts and beliefs yet not maintain my commitment to myself about smoking? I have learned for me that the long term maintenance of growing and being successful (as a person too) in my ...

I have waited for this before I posted again, and can proudly say that in that 100 days not one cigarette touched my lips. I cannot say that the thoughts have all gone away but yesterday was perhaps the biggest test for me. I took my dog for a walk in the park and had my winter jacket on. I put my hand in my pocket and guess what, found a half of a cigarette, I brought it out and looked at it fo...

Great I am still 60 days without Nicotine and Tar. I am beginning to understand more about myself in the process, mainly the reactive feelings in dealing with confrontation with others. I have kept things low key to begin with but I have had two incidents which I tried to handle (not successfully) with others. I tend to be friendly most of the time, but when I get angry or upset, I seem to hang o...