Hello all. Happy New Year. And for me the happiest start because I've made it! The penthouse - wahooo!
A year ago today I smoked my last cigarette and then (in what was to be the first of many mood swings) I discovered this site. A tech issue prevented me from actually posting until I got to day six (cue more mood swings) but I checked in everyday. It was the best feeling to read everyone's stories and advice. It was such a support knowing I wasn't alone. Every time I wanted to smoke there was a thread that I could relate to, sound advice and words to motivate me.
I don't really visit this site anymore, simply as I don't feel the need, but I remember how much I relied on it at the beginning. And I wanted to share a small piece of my experience.
Everyone said take it one day at a time. I didn't believe it but I remember what a big deal it was to reach day two, day three, one week, a month, six months... It's a feeling that will never leave me and I'm still in awe that I've got this far.
I used to hate it when people said this to me, but if I can do it everyone can. One day at a time. Whether you do cold turkey like me, patches, e-cigs... do whatever it takes to make each day easier, take it slowly and above all DONT GIVE UP! It's the hardest thing in the world but with a bit of determination and the support of all the people on here who understand what you're going through YOU CAN DO IT and when you do ITS THE BEST FEELING EVER, no regrets.
Clearly I've never been a motivational speaker and there are people on here who are far more eloquent than I am, but I just wanted to check in to say this. I wanted to be proof that you can do it.
Hope everyone is well and that all those who quit around the same time as me are thriving. Good luck to all this year's new quitters, hope to see you in here when I check back in a year's time 😉
Han
xxx