Day 26 - May 9, 2007 and Today's Tip

The psychological cravings are still haunting me once or twice a day. Some are triggered psychologically and some are triggered by physical exposure to cigarette smoke. Unfortunately, I passed by some people while they were smoking. Sadly, I still like the smell of a burning cigarette.

Physical exposures like this are difficult but they can be overcome. They physical exposure creates a psychological craving. All of a sudden, in a short burst of insanity, the "mind" seems to think that a cigarette sounds like a good idea. This conflict does occur - it's real. The good news is, this is a conscious process.

As a result, we can work our way through it. The MIND QUENCH is the trick to resolving this little (very short and very temporary) craving.

Leave any smoke infested areas as soon as possible. AVOID the situations at all costs. I also remind myself that the smell and the taste are radically different. I have quit before. I remember lighting up a cigarette after quitting for an extended period of time thinking, "This doesn't taste like I thought it would." Knowing this now, I'm not tempted to take a drag or even light one up. It's not at all what your mind may try to trick you into believing.

Besides, it's day 26. What possible reason could I have for lighting up a cigarette today - NO PHYSICAL Reason - That's for sure.

Today's Tip

Avoid exposure to cigarettes and second hand smoke at all costs. Stay focused on your QUENCH plan. What will you do if someone lights up a cigarette around you? Write down, in advance, how you would respond to this situation. When it happens, you can exercise your options accordingly.

If you are confronted with this situation you may:

- Be THANK FULL that you're not addicted any more.
- Be THANK FULL that you have choice that they don't (yet).
- Take pride that you could leave if you want to - THEY CAN'T.
- Ask the person(s) if they can wait before lighting up.
- Ask the person(s) to smoke somewhere else.
- Ask the person(s) to butt out.
- Leave the situation if at all possible.
- Excuse yourself from friends or colleagues.
- Take a breath mint or chew gum.
- Reflect on your current successes.
- Their cigarette is living craving - They will be finished in a few minutes.

Having a plan reduces stress. Writing a test is easy when you have the answers! Study, be prepared, and, WHEN TESTED (tempted) - You will succeed.