Yes you can

[Gunpowdertea]

I honestly thought I was one of those people who could never stop smoking. I literally had no idea how I could stop. I started at about 15, quite for six months during college then restarted at a period of stress. Then its was always 'I'll quit when'. Here's how I did it, in case it helped anyone.

Set myself a deadline - I want to have quit by the time I am 30. Had benefiting being non negotiable, not dependent on anything else going on, and it was far enough in the distance to prepare.

I went through a very long period of buying a packet of cigarettes or tobacco, smoking one and THROWING THE PACKET AWAY. This was some time ago so it was less expensive. I suppose I was abusing myself financially more than abusing myself physically with smoking, so it was some kind of incentive! In any case it kept the mindset of not having or trying not to have the 'identity' of a smoker/believe I was a smoker etc.

Actual serious attempts. I was attempting for many years, with varying degrees of success (a few months when I moved country/changed job, but mostly it was 5-10 days then I'd smoke again). So I guess the lesson there is to try. Try and fail. But keep trying, you haven't failed, you just haven't succeeded yet. It is all learning and preparation for success.

Eventually I worked out my pathway to success

1. Clear the diary of stressful events as much as possible for two weeks. Don't do it when pmt is due
2. Stock up on juices, snacks, good food
3. Chuck all paraphernalia obvs
4. This was my best tip- buy a calendar and tick off every single day of not smoking. Aim is to get to six weeks, because at six weeks you've gone through every temptation, every scenario and are in the clear. If anything it's so depressing to have to go back and start ticking the days off all over again!

The longer that passes the less you think about it.

I also found Allan Car Easy Way to Quit (Only Way?) helpful, as I realised that nicotine is out of your system in 48 hours and the rest is habit.

Patches are good if you disciplined/structured/likely to commit murder without a cigarette.

Nearly ten years smoke free. Occasionally it crosses my mind. I sometimes think I'd like that feeling of nicotine rush, then I remember that is instantly followed by a head to toe zapping of energy. Then I forget all about it.

I truly truly believe that every single person who wants to quit can. Go you all.

Thankyou for sharing your journey - you've inspired me... is the Alan Carr book really good? I'm desperate to quit. I didn't realise the 48 hours thing.. going to buy the book and give it another go.

I did the original Easy Way by Alan Carr. Worked for me, that was years ago. My exDH did it on his 50th - read the Alan Carr and stopped smoking 60 a day, just like that! I highly recommend it. You won't find it a thrilling read, it's very repetitive, but that is how the psychology does its thing

I needed to read this today! Thank you for posting. Today I decided and set my Quit Date. I’m petrified but so determined. This gives me hope. Think I’ll be buying that book too.