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1. jmancini

   

   1 posts
   Registered:
   05 Apr 2018
   05 Apr 2018

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   Hello I am new to the group and I really want to stop smoking this time.  This summer I will be 44 years old and I started smoking at 14.  I quit 3 times for a year for each of my pregnancies but now I am ready for me.   I am currently on the patch and started on Step 2 since I smoke 9 cigs a day, and always about the same time everyday.  I am finding it the hardest at work since my closest co-workers smoke and I already miss them.   I did try to quit about 3 months ago but after a week I started again due to an excuse to leave my desk at work and socialize.  I really hope I can change my ways and start a new and healthy lifestyle this time. 
2. treepeo

   

   832 posts
   Registered:
   29 Nov 2017
   05 Apr 2018 in reply to jmancini

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   Hi jmancini,
   
   I know what you mean about socializing.  I used to meet my good friends several times a day at work to go have a smoke with them.  But you know what?  I got over that pretty quick.  In fact, I threw myself into work in order to keep my mind off of my cravings, and I am so much more productive now.
   
   Instead of going for a smoke, why not get up and go make a coffee or tea?  Or just take a brief walk around.  You can always have a chat with other people who don't smoke.  It's all a matter of changing your routines, and adapting to new circumstances.
   
   Good luck, and stay in touch.  We are here to help you.
   
   
3. emily, quit coach

   

   247 posts
   Registered:
   28 Nov 2017
   06 Apr 2018

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   Hi jmancini,
   
   Nice to have you here on the site!
   
   Congratulations on making the decision to quit. It sounds like this time is different as you are doing it for yourself.
   
   As Treepeo mentioned, it can really help to change your routines when quitting. Have you found anything else to do on your breaks at work?
   
   Emily
4. ocean

   

   286 posts
   Registered:
   29 Nov 2017
   06 Apr 2018

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   Hi Mancini,
   Maybe after a couple of weeks you'll be able to still hang out with them?  I gave up alcohol, and wasn't tempted around others as I just didn't want to drink anymore.  But I liked socializing.  On the other hand I was the only smoker left at work, so I had to get in my car and drive off the property to have a quick smoke on my lunch break, so it there were some rewards to not have to go to all of that trouble anymore.  We smokers are a dying breed, and I have just a few close relationships with people who contunue to smoke.  Most of my peers quit long ago, before or after having children.  It made me feel so guilty for not being able to do that.  I smoked more as they got older, and the guilt increased.  It was so emotional and I tried and tried. Now that I've quit, they don't even seem to notice, arghhhh!!!