So... a few close calls....

[nsd_user663_54514]

I started out a little too optimistic maybe - and as I've just read in another thread maybe the novelty is wearing off a little now.

I started a little late on the first of the month but I'm still on day 9 now technically and going... maybe not going strong....

Since Sunday night basically the thought has crept into my head. It's the usual when you quit "I've chosen a bad time, maybe next week", "is it so bad if I only smoke sometimes... not get fully back into it" etc etc.

Thing is this time I haven't drank either. I've been determined not to let that derail the quit as it did last time. The no alcohol is only for a month and truth be told that's not an issue at all - the thought of a beer doesn't even interest me.

I've tried to recall all the reasons I quit - have made the calculations as to how much I've saved, fags not smoked etc. Even so far as to plan what I can do with the money after a couple of weeks.

But I guess it's the idea in my head that I actually want to stop. Will power has seen me through this, but this is like the third evening in a row where it's been really tough.

There is one bigger thing that's eating at me but I've chewed your ears enough - I'll save that for another time maybe.

So - any suggestions beyond what I've listed you'd suggest?

[nsd_user663_54554]

I started out a little too optimistic maybe - and as I've just read in another thread maybe the novelty is wearing off a little now.

I started a little late on the first of the month but I'm still on day 9 now technically and going... maybe not going strong....

Since Sunday night basically the thought has crept into my head. It's the usual when you quit "I've chosen a bad time, maybe next week", "is it so bad if I only smoke sometimes... not get fully back into it" etc etc.

Thing is this time I haven't drank either. I've been determined not to let that derail the quit as it did last time. The no alcohol is only for a month and truth be told that's not an issue at all - the thought of a beer doesn't even interest me.

I've tried to recall all the reasons I quit - have made the calculations as to how much I've saved, fags not smoked etc. Even so far as to plan what I can do with the money after a couple of weeks.

But I guess it's the idea in my head that I actually want to stop. Will power has seen me through this, but this is like the third evening in a row where it's been really tough.

There is one bigger thing that's eating at me but I've chewed your ears enough - I'll save that for another time maybe.

So - any suggestions beyond what I've listed you'd suggest?

Wow. Day 9 is actually really good Akaash, and you should be proud of where you are right now and not despondent. All I can say here is that I can empathise - although I've played at quitting before this is the first time I've really taken it seriously and been prepared. It's taking stamina, mental resilience and determination...aka willpower. If you can be objective about the whole thing and recognise what the changes are doing to your body, emotions, mentality and personality them that's half the battle in my book.

So you'll find plenty of support here, opinions and advice, mine is just one voice and I'm no expert! But I'm now in week six, day 37 and it DOES get easier. One day at a time, keep sharing what you're experiencing as it happens and you'll find kind words of help.

Good luck, we're all strapped in for a real roller coaster of a ride, one day at a time. If you wait for a 'good time to quit' chances are it won't happen, there is no best time, only you know when you're ready. Take the chances to celebrate wins, successes, share experiences and don't give up giving up, keep it up!

[nsd_user663_54562]

good luck

Hi there, I'm only on day 8 so not maybe the best to give advice but I'm doing well this time, and I think its because I can draw on experience from previous attempts. Secondly its the miracle that is this forum. And thirdly mental strength/will power

I know my pit falls and they are similar to yours as it seems - alcohol! I've had a few drinks(wine on fri nite and champagne on sat) but I've not got smashed with my mates as I know I would smoke. Some of my mates in previous attempts to quit have actually been very unsupportive eg basically encouraging me to smoke if we re out. And I'm basically avoiding my smoking pals for now! Aside I txt one of my smokie pals tonight and said I can't stop eating cos I've quit. And she replied yeah that's wat happens everyone gets fat! I thought, oh thanks lol. So think about why u failed in past attempts and use that info to help u this time round.

This forum has helped me no end and I'm certain I would not be her on day 8 if I hadn't found it! It occupys my time, encourages me, I get support. I mean I did the no smoking classes before(nhs course)...and it was good and I learned a lot. But in terms of support and help and all the rest, this forum is something else(wins hands down)! Its. Just great having people going thro wat u are, and great that some are at different stages and we all help each other. So I'd advise u to use this forum - a lot!

Mental strength, I'm a strong gal, and very motivated, and like to put myself under pressure. I told everyone I know or anyone who would listen that I was gona stop in the new year. I did that to put myself under pressure and that worked as a big motivator for me. And I suppose u just need the strength to bat away those 'just one' thoughts etc. I'm on day 8 and I've never wallowed in a craving. I don't let it eat me up. And its really does get easier as the days tick by.

Everybodys quit os different. Like there are ppl finding it so tough they have to take each day almost minute by minute. I can't relate to that but that's the beauty of this site, I'm sure you'll find ppl here who feel the same as you do and will be able to help u!

Best of luck and keep us posted

Xxx

[nsd_user663_54514]

Those are amazing responses and exactly what I needed to hear.

Thank you both for taking the time to reply.

I really do appreciate it.

[nsd_user663_53658]

Wow, you're doing brilliantly Akaash and there is nothing wrong with optimism. It is what will get you through, knowing that you CAN do this. You know you can. We all know you can.

Please try not to worry so much, just hang in there. Take it one day at a time. Don't think too far ahead.

You don't have to smoke today. Think about tomorrow when it gets here.

Before you know it, you'll look back at day 9 and it'll be a fuzzy memory!

Keep posting and letting us know how you are. Everyone here wants you to keep up the good work!

Please stay strong and keep going.

Molly x