It is becoming increasingly difficult for me to find the time to keep this up to date due to my new assignment. Unfortunately there may be a few days where I just won't be able to post.
Fortunately, I am still nicotine FREE and it's getting easier as time goes by. My new assignment is putting me in situations where I have no choice but to be around people while they are smoking. I'm thankful for my Nicotine QUENCH Plan.
I am very sensitive to the "after" smell of smoking. It really is quite awful.
Today's TIP
The benefits of quitting last a life time. ENJOY every one of them and continue to find new and become aware of new benefits. You may surprise yourself.
Monday, June 25, 2007
Saturday, June 23, 2007
Day 71: June 23, 2007, and Today's TIP
I have just taken on a new assignment and as a result, I have been extremely busy this past week. Unfortunately I have not had the time to keep my blog up to date. The good news is that I am still Nicotine FREE.
I lost track of my current day count until today. On one hand this is a good sign. When I quit smoking, I had no intentions of counting all the days I have been smoke free. I'm just glad when I have another day behind me.
I knew Friday was a "weekly" anniversary so it wasn't very difficult to calculate how many days I've been nicotine free. 10 Weeks and still going strong.
Today's TIP - Please HOLD
It's quite clear that surviving 10 weeks is proof that my physical well being does not depend on having nicotine in my system. I occassionally experience "nicotine triggers" when I see someone lighting up a cigarette. Thanks to my Nicotine QUENCH Plan, I have no problem dismissing the idea or thought of even wanting to have a cigarette.
The only true battles that remain are psychological. Knowing this, it's relatively easy to circumvent the "nicotine triggers" by maintaining my Nicotine QUENCH Plan activities. I am still chewing my favorite gum and I have not experienced any negative side effects since I quit (even my weight is back to normal).
I am more focused on the benefits I now enjoy since I quit smoking. The thought of lighting up a cigarette is easily "quenched" by the gains I have achieved. I think the biggest gain is the freedom I now enjoy.
I don't have to put my life on HOLD for a few minutes every waking hour. It's not just the time I was losing that matters but the time everyone around me lost as well. How many people do you put on hold just so you can have a cigarette.
Take your life OFF HOLD and enjoy living. The benefits of quitting last a life time. ENJOY.
I lost track of my current day count until today. On one hand this is a good sign. When I quit smoking, I had no intentions of counting all the days I have been smoke free. I'm just glad when I have another day behind me.
I knew Friday was a "weekly" anniversary so it wasn't very difficult to calculate how many days I've been nicotine free. 10 Weeks and still going strong.
Today's TIP - Please HOLD
It's quite clear that surviving 10 weeks is proof that my physical well being does not depend on having nicotine in my system. I occassionally experience "nicotine triggers" when I see someone lighting up a cigarette. Thanks to my Nicotine QUENCH Plan, I have no problem dismissing the idea or thought of even wanting to have a cigarette.
The only true battles that remain are psychological. Knowing this, it's relatively easy to circumvent the "nicotine triggers" by maintaining my Nicotine QUENCH Plan activities. I am still chewing my favorite gum and I have not experienced any negative side effects since I quit (even my weight is back to normal).
I am more focused on the benefits I now enjoy since I quit smoking. The thought of lighting up a cigarette is easily "quenched" by the gains I have achieved. I think the biggest gain is the freedom I now enjoy.
I don't have to put my life on HOLD for a few minutes every waking hour. It's not just the time I was losing that matters but the time everyone around me lost as well. How many people do you put on hold just so you can have a cigarette.
Take your life OFF HOLD and enjoy living. The benefits of quitting last a life time. ENJOY.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Day 67: June 19, 2007, and Today's TIP
I am still nicotine FREE. I'm keeping this one short because Canadian Idol is on in a few minutes. Aside from that, I don't have anything to say today - No CRAVINGS, No WITHDRAWAL symptoms.
So the message and ...
Today's TIP - don't compromise your goals.
The BENEFITS of QUITTING last a LIFE TIME.
So the message and ...
Today's TIP - don't compromise your goals.
The BENEFITS of QUITTING last a LIFE TIME.
Monday, June 18, 2007
Day 66: June 18, 2007, and Today's TIP
I'm still nicotine free. Father's day was great. I had a terrific time with the family. Today has been very interesting. I feel like someone has kicked the legs out from under me. I am just completely exhausted. It's not that I did anything unusual over the weekend. In fact, it was quite the opposite. I didn't do anything to over exert myself in any way.
I'm hoping that this "exhaustion" is just another part of the nicotine cleansing process or just my getting accustomed to the change in the weather. My mind has been relatively at ease with respect to nicotine withdrawal symptoms and cravings. I haven't experienced any major psychological "stress" triggers over the past few days.
Perhaps I've been focused on too many other things. Smoking is the furthest thing from my mind right now. In fact writing this BLOG today has forced me to even consider thinking about my Nicotine QUENCH Plan. To be clear, I usually look forward to updating the journal it's part of celebrating my current success.
I recall writing about stress management some time ago. Typically, for a smoker, the cigarette is an important stress management tool. For a non-smoker, the process is radically different and obviously doesn't include cigarettes. What did the cigarette do for you when you were stressed? What did they do for me?
Today's TIP - Stress Management - Cigarettes don't solve problems.
I think cigarettes just forced me to take a moment and think about the current circumstances. While I was smoking I would actually be thinking of ways to solve the problem. Sometimes though you simply need to take a break and let your subconscious mind do some thinking for you.
Have you ever tried to solve a problem and then just gave up in frustration only to find out a few hours, or maybe even days, later that a solution just seems to pop into your head? Really tough Sudoku puzzles can do this to you. I've had some puzzles that just seemed impossible and then after setting it down for a while, sometimes the solutions just seem to jump off the page.
I'm sure you've heard the expression, "Can't see the forest for the trees". Well, it simply means you just have to stand back sometimes to re-align your thinking.
Cigarettes don't solve problems. In fact, they create more problems than they solve. Many a cigarette has been known to start more fires than they put out - literally and figuratively speaking.
Remember: Cravings are Temporary - The Benefits of Quitting Last a LIFETIME.
Feel free to send me an email at nicotineQUENCH@INBOX.com
I'm hoping that this "exhaustion" is just another part of the nicotine cleansing process or just my getting accustomed to the change in the weather. My mind has been relatively at ease with respect to nicotine withdrawal symptoms and cravings. I haven't experienced any major psychological "stress" triggers over the past few days.
Perhaps I've been focused on too many other things. Smoking is the furthest thing from my mind right now. In fact writing this BLOG today has forced me to even consider thinking about my Nicotine QUENCH Plan. To be clear, I usually look forward to updating the journal it's part of celebrating my current success.
I recall writing about stress management some time ago. Typically, for a smoker, the cigarette is an important stress management tool. For a non-smoker, the process is radically different and obviously doesn't include cigarettes. What did the cigarette do for you when you were stressed? What did they do for me?
Today's TIP - Stress Management - Cigarettes don't solve problems.
I think cigarettes just forced me to take a moment and think about the current circumstances. While I was smoking I would actually be thinking of ways to solve the problem. Sometimes though you simply need to take a break and let your subconscious mind do some thinking for you.
Have you ever tried to solve a problem and then just gave up in frustration only to find out a few hours, or maybe even days, later that a solution just seems to pop into your head? Really tough Sudoku puzzles can do this to you. I've had some puzzles that just seemed impossible and then after setting it down for a while, sometimes the solutions just seem to jump off the page.
I'm sure you've heard the expression, "Can't see the forest for the trees". Well, it simply means you just have to stand back sometimes to re-align your thinking.
Cigarettes don't solve problems. In fact, they create more problems than they solve. Many a cigarette has been known to start more fires than they put out - literally and figuratively speaking.
Remember: Cravings are Temporary - The Benefits of Quitting Last a LIFETIME.
Feel free to send me an email at nicotineQUENCH@INBOX.com
Saturday, June 16, 2007
Day 64: June 16, 2007, and Today's TIP
I just brought my BLOG up to date to report on YESTERDAY so I really don't have much new to add to today except (of course) I'm still nicotine free. I haven't been experiencing any physical withdrawal symptoms although I do find that I am a little restless if I've been "stuck" inside for too long.
Maybe it's just me, but I have been noticing a lot of people smoking lately. I also noticed that a lot of smokers still just pitch their cigarette butts any where they please once they are "finished" with their cigarette. I think this was another one of the reasons why smoking was and is considered such a "dirty" habit.
Even when I was smoking, I didn't just throw cigarette butts out the window or pitch them on the ground when I was finished. I think this is yet another reason why people are offended by smokers as well. It's like a double whammy - I had to put up with your smoke and now you dump the butt on my property? What arrogance!
Today's TIP
While I'm not necessarily taking an offense to smokers I can take offense to their actions. I think they should take responsibility to "clean" up after themselves. Perhaps being offended by seeing all those cigarette butts on the ground can serve as part of my Nicotine QUENCH Plan.
Remember - the benefits of quitting last a LIFE TIME.
Maybe it's just me, but I have been noticing a lot of people smoking lately. I also noticed that a lot of smokers still just pitch their cigarette butts any where they please once they are "finished" with their cigarette. I think this was another one of the reasons why smoking was and is considered such a "dirty" habit.
Even when I was smoking, I didn't just throw cigarette butts out the window or pitch them on the ground when I was finished. I think this is yet another reason why people are offended by smokers as well. It's like a double whammy - I had to put up with your smoke and now you dump the butt on my property? What arrogance!
Today's TIP
While I'm not necessarily taking an offense to smokers I can take offense to their actions. I think they should take responsibility to "clean" up after themselves. Perhaps being offended by seeing all those cigarette butts on the ground can serve as part of my Nicotine QUENCH Plan.
Remember - the benefits of quitting last a LIFE TIME.
Day 63: June 15, 2007, and Today's TIP
Well, I made it to week nine and I didn't even post. I'm putting this out for the record - I'm still nicotine free.
Today's TIP
It can be tough to watch someone light up a cigarette even after quitting for 63 days. The reason for this is that I have been fortunate enough to keep my good health. I really haven't resented myself for smoking in the past.
Many people often wait until their circumstances force them to change their habits. It's alway a choice. When I do find myself clearing my throat or coughing to clear my lungs of whatever "stuff" is in them, I tell my self to remember the moment and to reflect on the fact that this is the direct result of smoking.
Today's TIP
It can be tough to watch someone light up a cigarette even after quitting for 63 days. The reason for this is that I have been fortunate enough to keep my good health. I really haven't resented myself for smoking in the past.
Many people often wait until their circumstances force them to change their habits. It's alway a choice. When I do find myself clearing my throat or coughing to clear my lungs of whatever "stuff" is in them, I tell my self to remember the moment and to reflect on the fact that this is the direct result of smoking.
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Day 62: June 14, 2007, and Today's TIP
Today was one of those days where I actually engaged in conversation with someone while they went outside to light up a cigarette - not once, but TWICE. This person knew that I recently quit and apologized for "having" to smoke several times during the course of our conversation.
I also learned that this person attempted to quit smoking on more than one occassion. The cause of the relapse was even more interesting. This person was using a Nicotine Supplement to quit smoking and ran out of product. This person never broke the addiction to NICOTINE. It's sad to see.
I recommended and suggest that COLD TURKEY is really the only way. End the dependence on Nicotine as soon as possible. I recognize that even COLD TURKEY quitters may also experience a relapse, but I am of the opinion that there is something fundamentally wrong with a program that uses Nicotine to help the subscribers reduce their dependence on Nicotine.
Today's TIP - You Decide what works FOR YOU.
The argument could be made that the Nicotine Replacement Therapies or Supplements are designed NOT to reduce a person's dependence on nicotine BUT only to eliminate the need to smoke cigarettes. That becomes my argument to support COLD TURKEY.
This may seem like a rhetorical question and their interests may be genuine. I contend that the method chosen to quit smoking is a matter of personal choice. It could be argued that because the method is a matter of personal preference, the liability for success or failure also remains with the individual.
I don't think any person or company can guarantee your success to quit. Only you can do that. It always comes back to the original premise - Do YOU want to QUIT smoking? If you do, learn HOW to quit, make the decision, and stick to it. That's why I developed my Nicotine QUENCH Plan.
I also learned that this person attempted to quit smoking on more than one occassion. The cause of the relapse was even more interesting. This person was using a Nicotine Supplement to quit smoking and ran out of product. This person never broke the addiction to NICOTINE. It's sad to see.
I recommended and suggest that COLD TURKEY is really the only way. End the dependence on Nicotine as soon as possible. I recognize that even COLD TURKEY quitters may also experience a relapse, but I am of the opinion that there is something fundamentally wrong with a program that uses Nicotine to help the subscribers reduce their dependence on Nicotine.
Today's TIP - You Decide what works FOR YOU.
The argument could be made that the Nicotine Replacement Therapies or Supplements are designed NOT to reduce a person's dependence on nicotine BUT only to eliminate the need to smoke cigarettes. That becomes my argument to support COLD TURKEY.
Are companies that sell Nicotine Supplements truly interested in your ability to quit smoking and become free of their addiction to nicotine?
OR
Are the companies that sell nicotine products / supplements masquerading as an effective withdrawal technique and taking advantage of someone's inability to manage an effective nicotine withdrawal program?
This may seem like a rhetorical question and their interests may be genuine. I contend that the method chosen to quit smoking is a matter of personal choice. It could be argued that because the method is a matter of personal preference, the liability for success or failure also remains with the individual.
I don't think any person or company can guarantee your success to quit. Only you can do that. It always comes back to the original premise - Do YOU want to QUIT smoking? If you do, learn HOW to quit, make the decision, and stick to it. That's why I developed my Nicotine QUENCH Plan.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
Day 61: June 13, 2007
Good news - I'm back to my original weight and I'm still nicotine free. No cravings today. It's amazing how some days they seem strong while on other days there is absolutely nothing. May today continue to be one of those No Craving days.
I'm always ready with my Nicotine QUENCH Plan though - in case something changes. It's interesting that even now, I feel like I am writing this posting in the "third person". In other words, writing this post is not sending any triggers or signals to "crave" nicotine.
Today's TIP
Continue to do what works for YOU. It's your quit. That's what I'm doing and so far it's working out great.
The BENEFITS will last a LIFETIME.
I'm always ready with my Nicotine QUENCH Plan though - in case something changes. It's interesting that even now, I feel like I am writing this posting in the "third person". In other words, writing this post is not sending any triggers or signals to "crave" nicotine.
Today's TIP
Continue to do what works for YOU. It's your quit. That's what I'm doing and so far it's working out great.
The BENEFITS will last a LIFETIME.
Tuesday, June 12, 2007
Day 60: June 12, 2007, and Today's TIP
No concerns today. I'm still nicotine FREE and I'm enjoying the freedom it brings. I am still quite amazed at how much time I must have lost to manage the habit of smoking. I just can't imagine those special trips to buy or smoke cigarettes. The money saved is only a fraction of the benefits. I still remember scrounging for loose change and toughing it through the worst of winter just to get a pack of cigarettes.
I think it's important to recognize the changes that have taken place since making the decision to become a non-smoker. I have been documenting my daily experiences in my Nicotine QUENCH Journal. Of course, this is typically updated after I make a post to this BLOG.
Documenting these experiences also makes it easier to keep my Nicotine QUENCH Plan up to date as well. I highly recommend keeping the QUENCH plan current - this document is a critical part of your exit strategy.
Today's TIP - the BUDDY system
I recently received a recommendation where someone suggested using the buddy system. I think the only way to do this successfully is by joining an online community or through an organization like Nicotine Anonymous.
I think it's important to recognize the changes that have taken place since making the decision to become a non-smoker. I have been documenting my daily experiences in my Nicotine QUENCH Journal. Of course, this is typically updated after I make a post to this BLOG.
Documenting these experiences also makes it easier to keep my Nicotine QUENCH Plan up to date as well. I highly recommend keeping the QUENCH plan current - this document is a critical part of your exit strategy.
Today's TIP - the BUDDY system
I recently received a recommendation where someone suggested using the buddy system. I think the only way to do this successfully is by joining an online community or through an organization like Nicotine Anonymous.
If your "buddy" is not as committed to quitting as you are, this could spell trouble. Another recommendation may be to find someone who has successfully quit and is willing (and can be there) to coach you through the withdrawal process.
This is why I recommend using my Nicotine QUENCH Plan to develop your own personal QUENCH Plan. I still remember waking up at 5:30 am yearning for a cigarette. The QUENCH Plan is with you 24 / 7. Do what works for YOU.
The BENEFITS of quitting Last a LIFE TIME.
Monday, June 11, 2007
Day 59: June 11, 2007, and Today's TIP
I survived Sunday - no problem. The weather was gorgeous this past weekend so I did a lot of biking.
This morning was a different story. My mind decided to entertain me with images of what it would be like if I was to light up a cigarette. Fortunately, I know that cigarettes are nothing more than a bad habit. I don't need them.
I didn't struggle with these thoughts for long - but they did have to be dealt with on a conscious level. my Nicotine QUENCH Plan was the perfect exit strategy.
Today's TIP
AVOID smoking areas and people who are smoking. Eventually a time will arrive when you have no choice but to meet with people under these circumstances. However, it is important to understand the difference between choosing to put yourself in harms way (temptation) and NOT having the choice. It's the conscience again - you want to make sure you are THINKING your way through your actions - BEFORE you take action.
This morning was a different story. My mind decided to entertain me with images of what it would be like if I was to light up a cigarette. Fortunately, I know that cigarettes are nothing more than a bad habit. I don't need them.
I didn't struggle with these thoughts for long - but they did have to be dealt with on a conscious level. my Nicotine QUENCH Plan was the perfect exit strategy.
Today's TIP
AVOID smoking areas and people who are smoking. Eventually a time will arrive when you have no choice but to meet with people under these circumstances. However, it is important to understand the difference between choosing to put yourself in harms way (temptation) and NOT having the choice. It's the conscience again - you want to make sure you are THINKING your way through your actions - BEFORE you take action.
Saturday, June 9, 2007
Day 57: June 9, 2007, and Today's TIP
Today was a little tougher than usual. My MIND was trying to help me relive the comforts of smoking by taking me back to the days when I used to smoke. I can only say that I'm glad I have my Nicotine QUENCH Plan. These aren't really cravings - it's more like a nagging feeling. These are expected events and that's why having my Nicotine QUENCH Plan is critical.
It's still not as bad as the experiences I had during my first week or so. This makes for another good reason to keep a journal. It's interesting to go back and relfect on the experiences you have already been through. Of course some experiences were good, some may be a little tougher.
As I mentioned the other day, we can't let our guard down. It's moments like these where the opportunity for a relapse can be the greatest. You have to be prepared to "argue" with yourself that smoking is the worst thing you can do. I mentioned it in my Nicotine QUENCH Plan as well. You are your own counsel. Remember the goal: Nicotine FREE For LIFE.
Today's TIP
Stick to the plan - stay positive. Review your goals and milestones. Take it one moment at a time. Cravings are ALWAYS temporary.
Remember, tomorrow is Sunday. Summer hours are in effect so there won't be a posting at least until Monday.
If you wish, feel free to send me an e-mail at nicotineQUENCH@INBOX.com
I look forward to hearing from you.
It's still not as bad as the experiences I had during my first week or so. This makes for another good reason to keep a journal. It's interesting to go back and relfect on the experiences you have already been through. Of course some experiences were good, some may be a little tougher.
As I mentioned the other day, we can't let our guard down. It's moments like these where the opportunity for a relapse can be the greatest. You have to be prepared to "argue" with yourself that smoking is the worst thing you can do. I mentioned it in my Nicotine QUENCH Plan as well. You are your own counsel. Remember the goal: Nicotine FREE For LIFE.
Today's TIP
Stick to the plan - stay positive. Review your goals and milestones. Take it one moment at a time. Cravings are ALWAYS temporary.
Remember, tomorrow is Sunday. Summer hours are in effect so there won't be a posting at least until Monday.
If you wish, feel free to send me an e-mail at nicotineQUENCH@INBOX.com
I look forward to hearing from you.
Friday, June 8, 2007
Day 56: June 8, 2007, and Today's TIP
Yes, I'm still Nicotine FREE and TODAY I have reached one of my major milestones. Today marks the day that I quit smoking for 2 months (8 weeks). It's a great day for a celebration.
A friend of mine, who I haven't seen for over 3 months, stopped by to visit last night. The last time this person saw me, I was still smoking. It also just so happens that this person used to smoke cigarettes many years ago as well and has been nicotine free for many years.
Although we caught up on many other things, we did talk about the method of quitting. Like me, he also quit cold turkey. He said it was really the only way that worked. Just make up your mind and move on. He said it was really all in the mind and overcoming the psychological aspects of quitting was the biggest challenge.
He confirmed that you just do whatever works for you to get through the cravings, one moment at a time, one craving at a time. This is consistent with my Nicotine QUENCH Plan. Design your own plan to satisfy your cravings.
Today's TIP - One craving at a time.
My father smoked three packs of cigarettes a day and quit cold turkey. Oddly enough my father credits me for convincing him to quit. Believe it or not, way back when I was a teenager and won second place in a public speaking contest. Can you guess what the topic was? - SMOKING - It was enough to convince my dad to quit and maybe a few others.
I doubt the cravings will ever go away completely. Many people I've talked to suggest they still get that desire to smoke every once in a while. Even after years of being smoke free, the mind still has the "memory". EVERYONE I have talked to has developed a distaste for cigarettes and that, of course, makes it easier to resist any temptation no matter how big or small.
A friend of mine, who I haven't seen for over 3 months, stopped by to visit last night. The last time this person saw me, I was still smoking. It also just so happens that this person used to smoke cigarettes many years ago as well and has been nicotine free for many years.
Although we caught up on many other things, we did talk about the method of quitting. Like me, he also quit cold turkey. He said it was really the only way that worked. Just make up your mind and move on. He said it was really all in the mind and overcoming the psychological aspects of quitting was the biggest challenge.
He confirmed that you just do whatever works for you to get through the cravings, one moment at a time, one craving at a time. This is consistent with my Nicotine QUENCH Plan. Design your own plan to satisfy your cravings.
Today's TIP - One craving at a time.
My father smoked three packs of cigarettes a day and quit cold turkey. Oddly enough my father credits me for convincing him to quit. Believe it or not, way back when I was a teenager and won second place in a public speaking contest. Can you guess what the topic was? - SMOKING - It was enough to convince my dad to quit and maybe a few others.
I doubt the cravings will ever go away completely. Many people I've talked to suggest they still get that desire to smoke every once in a while. Even after years of being smoke free, the mind still has the "memory". EVERYONE I have talked to has developed a distaste for cigarettes and that, of course, makes it easier to resist any temptation no matter how big or small.
Thursday, June 7, 2007
Day 55: June 7, 2007, and Today's TIP
My body is still in the cleansing process. I still find myself clearing my throat and coughing up "junk" occassionally. Cravings are occassional but easily managed with my Nicotine QUENCH Plan. My weight has peaked. I actually "lost a few pounds" making my net weight gain about 8 pounds.
I mentioned in yesterday's note that I had an opportunity to talk with someone who was smoking and apologized for their "nasty" habit.
Here's what I learned. This person "successfully" quit for 3 years then started up again. Then, just recently, started smoking again after quitting for 10 months. The reason for starting up again was surprising to me - STRESS - and that brings me to ...
Today's TIP - Never let your guard down
You can never let your guard down. I understand stress and I can imagine how the mind could conjure memories of stress relief when smoking a cigarette.
I think the lesson here is that we need to teach ourselves how to manage or cope with stress. Do you have a stress management plan?
I mentioned in yesterday's note that I had an opportunity to talk with someone who was smoking and apologized for their "nasty" habit.
Here's what I learned. This person "successfully" quit for 3 years then started up again. Then, just recently, started smoking again after quitting for 10 months. The reason for starting up again was surprising to me - STRESS - and that brings me to ...
Today's TIP - Never let your guard down
You can never let your guard down. I understand stress and I can imagine how the mind could conjure memories of stress relief when smoking a cigarette.
I think the lesson here is that we need to teach ourselves how to manage or cope with stress. Do you have a stress management plan?
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
Day 54: June 6, 2007, and Today's TIP
I'm still nicotine free. I actually met with a person today who was smoking outside of their facility. This person apologized to me for their "nasty" habit. Well, it made my day to suggest that quitting isn't as hard as it looks ...
I couldn't help but notice that foul 'after the smoke' smell. I didn't need too much more inspiration than that to remind me that quitting is the best thing I've done recently.
Today' TIP
If you're not careful, this could be a dangerous time. Your mind will start advising you that quitting wasn't that tough. "See you can do it, so what's the big deal." Rely on your peer conscience (the one I mentioned yesterday). Relapsing is not an option. QUITTING is Forever. Proving to yourself that you quit means quitting for good.
If you start up again - you didn't quit.
I couldn't help but notice that foul 'after the smoke' smell. I didn't need too much more inspiration than that to remind me that quitting is the best thing I've done recently.
Today' TIP
If you're not careful, this could be a dangerous time. Your mind will start advising you that quitting wasn't that tough. "See you can do it, so what's the big deal." Rely on your peer conscience (the one I mentioned yesterday). Relapsing is not an option. QUITTING is Forever. Proving to yourself that you quit means quitting for good.
If you start up again - you didn't quit.
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Day 53: June 5, 2007, and Today's TIP
I'm still Nicotine FREE. I am really starting to appreciate the idea that writing this BLOG keeps me motivated to succeed. I couldn't imagine coming in one day to write, "I've had a relapse".
Wouldn't that be devastating? After writing my journal - every day, the e-mails, the daily updates, my Nicotine QUENCH Plan, updating this BLOG - it would all be for nothing.
So, I'm motivated by the underlying pressure of the The Digital Village, also known as the internet community, to succeed in my quest to be Nicotine FREE For Life. Having to answer to someone for your actions adds a "conscience" to the decision making process.
Today's TIP
This is one of the reasons why it's important to tell people who are closest to you, people that you can trust, that you have quit smoking. They are there to support you in your quest to be Nicotine FREE For LIFE.
The objective wasn't to let them know that you might be in a bad mood from time to time because, "I quit smoking".
Hopefully family and friends are on your MIND QUENCH. When, or if, a craving strikes - what do you think about? Taking your mind off of yourself and your craving is easier when family and friends are part of the process.
Let them know how you're doing - good and bad days. Let them know they are appreciated too. They have tolerated mood swings and put up with a lot more than you know to support your QUEST to be Nicotine FREE For LIFE.
Next time you're out celebrating your success, don't forget to share the experience with the people who helped you get there.
Wouldn't that be devastating? After writing my journal - every day, the e-mails, the daily updates, my Nicotine QUENCH Plan, updating this BLOG - it would all be for nothing.
So, I'm motivated by the underlying pressure of the The Digital Village, also known as the internet community, to succeed in my quest to be Nicotine FREE For Life. Having to answer to someone for your actions adds a "conscience" to the decision making process.
Today's TIP
This is one of the reasons why it's important to tell people who are closest to you, people that you can trust, that you have quit smoking. They are there to support you in your quest to be Nicotine FREE For LIFE.
The objective wasn't to let them know that you might be in a bad mood from time to time because, "I quit smoking".
Hopefully family and friends are on your MIND QUENCH. When, or if, a craving strikes - what do you think about? Taking your mind off of yourself and your craving is easier when family and friends are part of the process.
Let them know how you're doing - good and bad days. Let them know they are appreciated too. They have tolerated mood swings and put up with a lot more than you know to support your QUEST to be Nicotine FREE For LIFE.
Next time you're out celebrating your success, don't forget to share the experience with the people who helped you get there.
Monday, June 4, 2007
Day 52: June 4, 2007, and Today's TIP
I'm still Nicotine FREE and sticking to my Nicotine QUENCH Plan with great success.
Today's TIP
Stick to the plan. If you have to, make small changes as necessary. Major changes could have major effects.
Avoid smoking areas, always keep a good supply of gum on hand.
Remember the GOAL: Nicotine FREE For LIFE
Today's TIP
Stick to the plan. If you have to, make small changes as necessary. Major changes could have major effects.
Avoid smoking areas, always keep a good supply of gum on hand.
Remember the GOAL: Nicotine FREE For LIFE
Day 51: June 3, 2007
For the record - I survived the day. No issues, no cravings. Nicotine FREE.
As you know, I'm not posting on Sunday's (at least for the summer).
As you know, I'm not posting on Sunday's (at least for the summer).
Saturday, June 2, 2007
Day 50, June 2, 2007, and Today's TIP
I am still Nicotine FREE and I haven't had any major cravings. I don't have much time to share today since I have an event to attend tonight.
The only time I think about smoking now is when I'm writing this BLOG. I may just have to change my focus little bit. Perhaps a slight change in topical format. Any suggestions are welcome.
Send me an e-mail: nicotinequench@inbox.com
Today's TIP
Have fun. Enjoy your new activities. CELEBRATE - it's the weekend.
REMINDER - NO POST for SUNDAY June 3, 2007
The only time I think about smoking now is when I'm writing this BLOG. I may just have to change my focus little bit. Perhaps a slight change in topical format. Any suggestions are welcome.
Send me an e-mail: nicotinequench@inbox.com
Today's TIP
Have fun. Enjoy your new activities. CELEBRATE - it's the weekend.
REMINDER - NO POST for SUNDAY June 3, 2007
Friday, June 1, 2007
Day 49: June 1, 2007, and Today's TIP
I have been updating my journal every day for seven (7) weeks. I have achieved my goal and objective: I am Nicotine FREE For LIFE and I am living a nicotine free lifestyle. Each day presents less of a challenge to cope with the cravings.
I have talked to people who have quit for years. Some have mentioned that they still get a slight craving although rarely. I haven't had any significant cravings or withdrawal experiences lately. What I do experience is nothing like the first two weeks.
I am off to celebrate 7 weeks of nicotine free living.
Todays TIP
Never lose sight of the goal: Nicotine FREE For LIFE. Someone once told me that, "If the WHY is big enough, the HOW doesn't matter." I won't disagree with that statment, but knowing HOW makes it a lot easier.
Keep your Nicotine QUENCH Plan up to date. Understand what works for you, update the plan, and keep doing it.
One moment at a time.
I have talked to people who have quit for years. Some have mentioned that they still get a slight craving although rarely. I haven't had any significant cravings or withdrawal experiences lately. What I do experience is nothing like the first two weeks.
I am off to celebrate 7 weeks of nicotine free living.
Todays TIP
Never lose sight of the goal: Nicotine FREE For LIFE. Someone once told me that, "If the WHY is big enough, the HOW doesn't matter." I won't disagree with that statment, but knowing HOW makes it a lot easier.
Keep your Nicotine QUENCH Plan up to date. Understand what works for you, update the plan, and keep doing it.
One moment at a time.
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