Author Topic: Punching smoking in the face!  (Read 48332 times)

JennC

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #50 on: April 05, 2012, 07:22:22 AM »
I smoked in my late teens and early twenties and found myself quite addicted by the time I graduated college. What an antimustachian habit! I think a pack of smokes was 10 bucks when I decided to quit. Here's what I did and it may help you stick to your guns.

I didn't use any weaning off or gum or patch therapy. I stopped smoking and starting exercising. It was replacement therapy with something super good for me. As my body became fitter and my cardiovascular system became stronger, I was much less inclined to want to pollute my body (and specifically my lungs) and reduce my physical fitness as a result. When I started, my lungs would burn with increased exertion because they were full of crud. The longer I stayed away from smoking and continued to workout, my lung capacity increased significantly and I really noticed the difference in my cardiovascular endurance.

It's been about a decade and I don't ever feel the urge to smoke anymore. I still exercise regularly too.

Brett

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #51 on: April 07, 2012, 03:31:42 PM »
Thanks to all recent posters. I definitely can appreciate the effect it has on kids of smokers. It's disturbing really. I like the idea of recognising triggers and replacing the activity. I've been doing that a lot, as well as delaying 'gratification' and waiting 'just one more hour' before getting fun. I can aprpeciate folks who replace it with exercise. Have tried that in the past, but I think the two are separated in my mind. I already got reasonable exercise while smoking. Since quitting, I think mostly being around family and gardening A LOT have kept me true.

5 SMOKE FREE DAYS SO FAR!


Blood pressure and pulse back to normal
Nicotine and Carbon Monoxide levels have halved.
Oxygen levels are normal.
Carbon monoxide has been eliminated from my body.
Lungs are starting to clear the excess mucus and debris.
There is NO NICOTINE in my body anymore!!!
Ability to taste and smell is greatly improved
Breathing becomes easier.
 Bronchial tubes begin to relax and energy levels increase
- this is noticeable I think. I've felt pretty great these last few days.

In the following weeks my circulation will improve and after that we're gradually chipping away at thigns like heart attack and lung cancer risk.

FI@2022Jem

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #52 on: April 08, 2012, 02:12:16 PM »
Hello,
I think this thread is great!  I am new to the community but want to add something that worked for my husband: toothpicks!  He smoked for ten years and when he decided to quit he picked up a toothpick habit.  He gets the same hand-to-mouth satisfaction with the added bonus on cleaner teeth.  The dentist actually commented on improved gum health!  We get them at the health food store and he keeps a small pack in his pocket at all times.  They make plain as well as a bunch of flavors with essential oils; his favorites are cinnamon and tea tree.  I know there is not a 'right' or 'wrong' way to quit, but wanted to throw out this replacement behavior in case it is useful for anyone. Good luck and congrats!
Jennie
*also, I skimmed this thread so I apologize if I am repeating something that has already been said.

Brett

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #53 on: April 08, 2012, 04:40:50 PM »
Hello,
I think this thread is great!  I am new to the community but want to add something that worked for my husband: toothpicks!  He smoked for ten years and when he decided to quit he picked up a toothpick habit.  He gets the same hand-to-mouth satisfaction with the added bonus on cleaner teeth.  The dentist actually commented on improved gum health!  We get them at the health food store and he keeps a small pack in his pocket at all times.  They make plain as well as a bunch of flavors with essential oils; his favorites are cinnamon and tea tree.  I know there is not a 'right' or 'wrong' way to quit, but wanted to throw out this replacement behavior in case it is useful for anyone. Good luck and congrats!
Jennie
*also, I skimmed this thread so I apologize if I am repeating something that has already been said.

Hi Jennie, welcome to the forum and thanks for a brilliant suggestion. I like the idea of toothpicks. I hadn't thought of anything aside from food as a replacement. Toothpicks are awesome. I didn't know they made flavoured ones. Cheers. 

arebelspy

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #54 on: April 12, 2012, 03:55:35 PM »
Been another few days.  Still smoke free?  Gogo Brett!
I am a former teacher who accumulated a bunch of real estate, retired at 29, spent some time traveling the world full time and am now settled with three kids.
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Brett

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #55 on: April 13, 2012, 05:58:45 AM »
Been another few days.  Still smoke free?  Gogo Brett!

Indeed I am, it's been going very well thanks. Though today is particularly challenging, partner's mum has been taken to hospital with a fractured skull and it'll be 48 hours before we get the all clear, so that's stressful, but worse is there is actually tobacco in the flat now because partner had only just got back from visiting his family last night. His tobacco was left here. Tough times. I've still got my nicotine gum if I can't hack the cravings, but I've made it 10 days so far, I think I'm over the worst of it.

Thanks for checking in.

arebelspy

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #56 on: April 13, 2012, 06:51:13 AM »
Sorry to hear about your partner's mother, hope everything turns out okay. 

Glad to hear you're holding strong, and amazed you're doing it "cold turkey," without much (or any?) of the gum or other aids.   Keep it up.
I am a former teacher who accumulated a bunch of real estate, retired at 29, spent some time traveling the world full time and am now settled with three kids.
If you want to know more about me, this Business Insider profile tells the story pretty well.
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Kriegsspiel

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #57 on: April 13, 2012, 08:04:16 AM »
I didn't read the whole thread, but just to put it out there:

I was a dipper for years.  I started almost as soon as I went to college (I thought it was gross in high school), but all of a sudden I was around a ton of people who dipped, since I hung around with a bunch of military-types.  Anyways, I finally quit with a combination of gum and Wellbutrin/Bupropion.  I think the Wellbutrin helped the most though, I have some left over and I take it whenever I feel even the slightest tinge of nicotine-wantingness.

Brett

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #58 on: April 13, 2012, 01:35:07 PM »
Sorry to hear about your partner's mother, hope everything turns out okay. 

Glad to hear you're holding strong, and amazed you're doing it "cold turkey," without much (or any?) of the gum or other aids.   Keep it up.

Thanks. I didn't need to post the details of the stress here, apologies for that, this was just the first real outlet I came across and it helped me get my thoughts straight. Things will be fine, I'm sure. I am completely surprised at myself for not having used my gum. I think it's just been a big game I've played with myself: I know I am allowed to use the gum, but after going few a few cravings without it it sort of became a competition with myself to see how long I could last for, and if I lose the game, well I won't really have lost since I wouldn't be smoking. But once I got past the stage when all the nicotine was out of my system and the cravings weren't too bad, it just seemed like a bad idea to use it if I could avoid it so as to not prolong withdrawal. Even if it's a big mental trick I'm grateful for it right now knowing that there's tobacco in the flat.

I think I've just timed this quitting right in terms of my mental outlook and what I would be doing when quitting time came. Oh but I totally missed my appointment at the smoking cessation clinic. That was a fail, but at least I'm doing alright.

I didn't read the whole thread, but just to put it out there:

I was a dipper for years.  I started almost as soon as I went to college (I thought it was gross in high school), but all of a sudden I was around a ton of people who dipped, since I hung around with a bunch of military-types.  Anyways, I finally quit with a combination of gum and Wellbutrin/Bupropion.  I think the Wellbutrin helped the most though, I have some left over and I take it whenever I feel even the slightest tinge of nicotine-wantingness.

Thanks for sharing. I think the situational aspect can be really challenging. I like to sit at my window in the morning with my coffee (and previously my cigarette) just to watch the world a bit, it's been a bit tough for those instances because the brain expects a cigarette. Did you find the people you were around made a difference after college? Were they still the same folks?

Mrs MM

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #59 on: April 13, 2012, 07:33:32 PM »
Been another few days.  Still smoke free?  Gogo Brett!

Indeed I am, it's been going very well thanks. Though today is particularly challenging, partner's mum has been taken to hospital with a fractured skull and it'll be 48 hours before we get the all clear, so that's stressful, but worse is there is actually tobacco in the flat now because partner had only just got back from visiting his family last night. His tobacco was left here. Tough times. I've still got my nicotine gum if I can't hack the cravings, but I've made it 10 days so far, I think I'm over the worst of it.

Thanks for checking in.

Yikes!  Sorry to hear that.  I hope she's ok.

And, I hope you got your partner's tobacco out of there!  Congrats on making it 10 days!  Keep at it.

Kriegsspiel

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #60 on: April 15, 2012, 07:39:21 AM »

Thanks for sharing. I think the situational aspect can be really challenging. I like to sit at my window in the morning with my coffee (and previously my cigarette) just to watch the world a bit, it's been a bit tough for those instances because the brain expects a cigarette. Did you find the people you were around made a difference after college? Were they still the same folks?

Yea, the situational triggers were killer.  My problem was, I pretty much had a dip in almost all the time, so every situation felt like a trigger!  I was around the same kind of people (more, actually) after college, since I went into the military, where it seems like everyone uses some kind of tobacco.  I think what made the main difference for this last, and successful, time was that I actually WANTED to stop. 

It's kind of weird, but prior to that, even when I was 'saying' I wanted to stop dipping, I really didn't want to, because I liked it SO MUCH.  But I really did just get tired of it, hated spending money on it, and I was getting real tired of having an addiction.  The psychology of it helped me quit, interestingly.

Brett

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #61 on: April 15, 2012, 05:21:59 PM »
Thanks Mrs MM.

Kriegsspiel, I think that's what made such a difference in my attempts now, is that I really want to quit, whereas before it was pretty half-hearted. It seems pretty weird that tobacco use is high in the military, where you'd think folks would want to be healthier.

So, full disclosure, this weekend was a really rubbish one and I have to sadly I gave into the cravings. I couldn't handle the cravings which increased with  the rubbishness. It was just more stress than I could manage at the moment. I ended up not sleeping at all Friday night, flying out early Saturday morning be with partner, sleeping horribly and being around a lot of smokers. Partner's mum had to be rushed into surgery in the middle of Friday night and it was a very lucky escape. She is now recovering pretty well.

I'm back home now since I have to work tomorrow (yet another reason to add to list of reasons for working toward FI). I'm still committed to quitting so the challenge begins anew tomorrow morning. All tobacco related products are ready to be chucked away, the gum is still around and since stress levels are reduced quite a bit hopefully I'll have the energy and willpower to stay the course.

I made it 13 days there without a cigarette, which, for an attempt made without much changing the situations I would find myself in normally, is a record. Hopefully I can count on the continued support from this awesome community, because honestly the thing that bothered me most about smoking this weekend was that I would have to come back and report it here. A lesson that was learnt/reinforced here is that despite what the cravings try to convince you, that first puff after several days not smoking does not provide the sense of relief that it used to, and that actually tobacco tastes pretty bad. Another thing that's really offputting is that with my nose working better than it used to, is that I can smell the smoke on myself. Bleurgh.

Anyway, here we go again.

Sunflower

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #62 on: April 15, 2012, 05:40:54 PM »

I made it 13 days there without a cigarette, which, for an attempt made without much changing the situations I would find myself in normally, is a record. Hopefully I can count on the continued support from this awesome community, because honestly the thing that bothered me most about smoking this weekend was that I would have to come back and report it here. A lesson that was learnt/reinforced here is that despite what the cravings try to convince you, that first puff after several days not smoking does not provide the sense of relief that it used to, and that actually tobacco tastes pretty bad. Another thing that's really offputting is that with my nose working better than it used to, is that I can smell the smoke on myself. Bleurgh.

Anyway, here we go again.

We're all still rooting for you! Although I've never used tobacco products, I had to completely eliminate sugar and wheat (including most fruit) from my diet this past year and completely consider sugar an addiction. I cheated quite frequently at first because it was so hard but as of Jan. 1 I haven't consumed anything with added sugar or wheat! It gets easier as time goes on but I think mostly my resolve got better (it's still amazingly hard to turn down homemade pie fresh out of the oven) and for my health its worth it. Don't feel too bad about the smoke you had, it's now in the past and doesn't mean you have to stop moving forward!

skandrae

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #63 on: April 16, 2012, 09:27:44 AM »
Hey Brett,

I'm sorry to hear about all the stressful stuff over the last few days. I'm rooting for you over here ^_^

astadt

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #64 on: April 24, 2012, 01:09:54 AM »
Hey Brett,

Im checking back in on you. Hope alls going well.

Keept up the great work!

Brett

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #65 on: April 25, 2012, 11:13:06 AM »
Hey guys. Honesty as always. Have completely failed at this the past two weeks (since the stressful weekend). Back in the old situations of work etc I wasn't mentally prepped enough I guess for those after having smoked that weekend and I've been a bit down, partly about the smoking, so it's been tough. Feel like I've let folks down here, but I will make another attempt and learn from this most recent one. I know I can count on you guys for support, which honestly is a great feeling, so thank you so much for that.

I'm currently revving myself back up for another attempt. The plan is to set another quit date and go back to see my parents for a few days on that date. I'm thinking the 4th/5th of May since it's a bank holiday weekend so will give me a good few days with the family and keep me plenty busy with garden work etc.

arebelspy

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #66 on: April 25, 2012, 11:22:11 AM »
I feel like setting the future date may have been part of the problem of starting again.

Basically you put off starting to quit, and kept smoking.  Then went and did it on that date.  But then once you slipped, you have no reason to make yourself stop again - it's not that perfect circumstance at parent's house, on holiday, whatever.

I think you should try to quit now, today.  You tried the "ease into it" idea.  Now try the cold turkey (with supports like gum).  Don't buy any more.  Chew the gum, or patch, or whatever you need to.  But waiting to start seems to me that it's easier to keep smoking if you slip after quitting.

Just IMO.  I'm rooting for you, not matter what!
I am a former teacher who accumulated a bunch of real estate, retired at 29, spent some time traveling the world full time and am now settled with three kids.
If you want to know more about me, this Business Insider profile tells the story pretty well.
I (rarely) blog at AdventuringAlong.com. Check out the Now page to see what I'm up to currently.

astadt

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #67 on: April 26, 2012, 01:54:45 AM »
Hey Brett,

Bummer youre smoking again, Youve got to remember all of the reasons you want to quit and run through that list every time youve got the urge. Youre the one thats got to keep you accountable and your last cigarette has to be your LAST ONE EVER!

At least make sure you cut back as much as possible and when you get cravings now, remember that the fewer you have the easier it'll be to quit.

Good luck Bro


Brett

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #68 on: May 05, 2012, 04:57:10 PM »
Hey guys, thought I'd check in and give an update and some responses.

I feel like setting the future date may have been part of the problem of starting again.

Basically you put off starting to quit, and kept smoking.  Then went and did it on that date.  But then once you slipped, you have no reason to make yourself stop again - it's not that perfect circumstance at parent's house, on holiday, whatever.

I think you should try to quit now, today.  You tried the "ease into it" idea.  Now try the cold turkey (with supports like gum).  Don't buy any more.  Chew the gum, or patch, or whatever you need to.  But waiting to start seems to me that it's easier to keep smoking if you slip after quitting.

Just IMO.  I'm rooting for you, not matter what!

I appreciate the honesty and I spent a long time thinking about your points. I ended up sticking with the date setting method, out of a mixture of rational thought and irrational addiction thought. I'm not sure at what ratio. Incorporated into the rules this time is a very strict clause of if I do smoke again, I must immediately quit again etc. Obviously the goal is not to smoke at all. I will be using the Seinfeld chain method just to help visualise the achievement. My aunt is down visiting this weekend too, and she quit 6 years ago now, her thoughts on the matter were pretty much if you really want to quit you will.

Hey Brett,

Bummer youre smoking again, Youve got to remember all of the reasons you want to quit and run through that list every time youve got the urge. Youre the one thats got to keep you accountable and your last cigarette has to be your LAST ONE EVER!

At least make sure you cut back as much as possible and when you get cravings now, remember that the fewer you have the easier it'll be to quit.

Good luck Bro



Cheers. I did my best to follow this advice and to cut back. Think I did OK for the most part. I know I've got to keep myself accountable, and I'm a big proponent of personal responsibility, but it is helpful to have someone/thing else to help drive you when you're weak.

I had my last cigarette this morning shortly before getting the train to my folks. It's been about 14 hours now. Feeling alright. Been fairly busy, gardening, visiting my brother/niece. Plenty planned for the rest of the weekend and for when I return home. The bf won't be home until next Sunday, so I won't have tobacco around the flat. I'm feeling pretty good and hopeful right now. As ever, I really appreciate the support from all you guys. Thanks.

astadt

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #69 on: May 05, 2012, 09:16:59 PM »
Keep yourself busy, and keep a list of all the wonderful things about non smoking in your head. When it gets tough, just run though them. I know it sounds daunting but once you get through the first few days its progressively gets easier and then once a few weeks pass you'll be feeling like normal.

Good luck!

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #70 on: May 06, 2012, 03:24:23 AM »
Brett, I know you can do it. The real problem with backsliding is that you're in danger of having the mindset of "Oh, why even try... I'll just start smoking again like I did last time I tried to quit." Just keep on doing your program and reminding yourself of why you want to stop. It took me three tries to finally quit.

Rootin' for ya!

--Welmoed

Brett

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #71 on: May 06, 2012, 03:40:28 PM »
Brett, I know you can do it. The real problem with backsliding is that you're in danger of having the mindset of "Oh, why even try... I'll just start smoking again like I did last time I tried to quit." Just keep on doing your program and reminding yourself of why you want to stop. It took me three tries to finally quit.

Rootin' for ya!

--Welmoed
Keep yourself busy, and keep a list of all the wonderful things about non smoking in your head. When it gets tough, just run though them. I know it sounds daunting but once you get through the first few days its progressively gets easier and then once a few weeks pass you'll be feeling like normal.

Good luck!

Thanks guys. So far it's not been awful. Had a couple of tough cravings so far, but doing alright. I've actually discovered a family history of heart trouble on my dad's side thsi weekend. My grandad smoked and died of heart attack in his 40's, and my dad has high cholesterol now in his 40's, fortunately not a smoker. It's gotta be kicked now, because even more now I just can't take the risk. So yet another reason to quit. Over 36 hours so far, tomorrow morning all the nicotine and carbon monoxide will be gone.

arebelspy

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #72 on: May 06, 2012, 04:47:34 PM »
Thanks for the update Brett.

Seinfeld chain method is great, but as I've discussed in another thread on these forums, it can be a good excuse to start up again when you break the chain.

(Or, in the opposite case of starting a good habit, to not continue the habit once you break the chain.)

The best way to handle this is if you break the chain (smoke), immediately quit, you don't get an X for that day, but you get an X the next day, and your new goal is to start a new chain even LONGER than the first one.

Make sure you have some gum around, so even if you get overpowered you have something better than a cigarette. 

Good luck!
I am a former teacher who accumulated a bunch of real estate, retired at 29, spent some time traveling the world full time and am now settled with three kids.
If you want to know more about me, this Business Insider profile tells the story pretty well.
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Brett

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #73 on: May 08, 2012, 11:28:20 PM »
Thanks arebel. The gum is coming with me everywhere at the moment. The fact I don't much like it is helping me avoid using it, but I will if I must. appreciate the ongoing support

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #74 on: May 10, 2012, 02:48:23 PM »
"Yes, smoking. I reckon it's a massive contender for the title of 'most anti-mustachian habit'."

Oh, I don't know about that.  Think about all the money you could save by dropping dead early.

arebelspy

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #75 on: May 12, 2012, 05:56:31 PM »
Still good, a week clean?
I am a former teacher who accumulated a bunch of real estate, retired at 29, spent some time traveling the world full time and am now settled with three kids.
If you want to know more about me, this Business Insider profile tells the story pretty well.
I (rarely) blog at AdventuringAlong.com. Check out the Now page to see what I'm up to currently.

reverend

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #76 on: May 15, 2012, 07:52:31 AM »
Interesting stuff, this.   I was introduced to clove cigs when I was 20 or so and loved'em.  Then it was regular smokes for a bit, but they taste like ash, so it was back to cloves. Then the CA taxes were insane, so I stopped (I'm more cheap than addicted, right?).

Then I found that I could import smokes far cheaper than buying them locally (including Indian Reservations, no tax, but still expensive) so I did that. Then I hated the smell of it in my clothes and that I couldn't wear a jacket for more than a day or two before it had to be hung out to air out or washed, so then I switched to hookah instead.

No smell, no nicotine, tar or tobacco and because it's a bit of a process it's easier.

Once in a blue moon, I import a few cartons of cloves because I love the flavor, but it's always nice when I run out.


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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #77 on: May 15, 2012, 09:48:14 AM »
No smell, no nicotine, tar or tobacco and because it's a bit of a process it's easier.
Hookah is tobacco and has nicotine (and smell). No tar though...

Praxis

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #78 on: May 15, 2012, 09:54:40 AM »
Good job!!

A quote I liked from Reddit:
Quote
Every smoker has a reason to not stop smoking today. Every reason is bullshit. Mine was utter bullshit. In good conscious, when I realized how bullshit my reason to keep on smoking was - I couldn't do it anymore.[/img]

There's so many benefits to kicking that habit, but it's incredibly hard to do.  I've watched family members struggle.

reverend

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #79 on: May 16, 2012, 08:02:41 AM »
If you elect to buy the tobacco containing stuff, yes. There are herbal options where you get the flavor of the molasses but not mixed in tobacco.
No smell - that's the best part. Clothes don't reek. Even if you smoked it IN the house, people wouldn't know it unless they walked in right when you smoke. It doesn't stick on the walls like that nicotine/tar gunk after years of smoking and doesn't stink up the drapes.

The thing with smoking is that it often tastes good. Just like anything, it needs to be done in moderation. If you smoke too much, the risk factor for a host of things goes way up. Same if you eat too much salt, drink too much water, drive too fast etc.

I really have no problem with people doing it, but if you feel you're (general "you") addicted to it, it's gone past an enjoyable hobby to something detrimental.

No smell, no nicotine, tar or tobacco and because it's a bit of a process it's easier.
Hookah is tobacco and has nicotine (and smell). No tar though...

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #80 on: May 16, 2012, 11:55:48 AM »
If you elect to buy the tobacco containing stuff, yes. There are herbal options where you get the flavor of the molasses but not mixed in tobacco.
Interesting, I wasn't aware that existed. I've never seen it around town. The tea shisha varieties look especially interesting to me (I'm a half-gallon a day tea drinker).

Quote
No smell - that's the best part. Clothes don't reek. Even if you smoked it IN the house, people wouldn't know it unless they walked in right when you smoke. It doesn't stick on the walls like that nicotine/tar gunk after years of smoking and doesn't stink up the drapes.
It's definitely less stinky than cigarettes, but I think saying there's no smell goes a little far. There are no magical properties of either molasses or water that take out all the smell particles, and if you had upholstered furniture or exposed wood I have no doubt it would absorb some of the smell. Ever been to an indoor hookah bar when business is slow? They continually smell like shisha, regardless of how much is currently burning.

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #81 on: June 17, 2012, 09:48:39 PM »
Any luck to the various people in this thread trying to quit?

Wishing you all the strongest of willpowers!

I am a former teacher who accumulated a bunch of real estate, retired at 29, spent some time traveling the world full time and am now settled with three kids.
If you want to know more about me, this Business Insider profile tells the story pretty well.
I (rarely) blog at AdventuringAlong.com. Check out the Now page to see what I'm up to currently.

Noncents

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #82 on: July 01, 2012, 10:11:51 PM »
Any luck to the various people in this thread trying to quit?

Wishing you all the strongest of willpowers!

I owe Brett a great big thank you for punching me in the face.

I started smoking in 1995 at age 18 (my friends and girlfriend at the time all smoked).  I've quit a few times since then, but the longest amount of time has only been for six months.

Brett, once you posted about how eager you were to quit, I reassessed my situation - I realized that I was just coming up with one bullshit reason after another to keep on smoking, and that it was really only my brain playing tricks on me that kept me smoking.  May 1st, 2012 I quit using nicoderm step one - I did that for two weeks and the step 2 for one week.  After that I stopped.  I've been nicotine free since May 22nd and I haven't missed it for more than 30 seconds at a time since.

At roughly half a pack a day, I'd say that's an extra $100 bucks or so added to my stash directly (thus far) and hopefully at least 2 to 3 times that amount saved in future medical bills.

So, Brett - Thank you.  I hope you're still making progress towards your goal.  If you've slipped and gone back, I urge you to reassess your situation... Lord knows it's taken be nearly two decades to get to a point where I can clearly see my options and what to do about them.  Thanks again for your inspiration.  Also, big thanks go out to Mr. and Mrs. MM for providing this forum to share ideas and inspire us!

Full disclosure - I did get pretty toasty one evening about 3 weeks ago... I swung by my neighbors birthday party to say hello and ended up having a beer or three and a few cigarettes.  I was super hung over the next day and smoking the night before probably aided in my feeling so terrible the next day (like not getting out of bed till after 1pm terrible).  The tequila shots for Elizabeth's birthday probably didn't help too much with that either :) 

arebelspy

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #83 on: July 02, 2012, 08:53:19 AM »
Congrats Noncents on quitting, and good luck stay strong in sticking to it.

If you feel weak, come post here and we'll give you a punch in the face!
I am a former teacher who accumulated a bunch of real estate, retired at 29, spent some time traveling the world full time and am now settled with three kids.
If you want to know more about me, this Business Insider profile tells the story pretty well.
I (rarely) blog at AdventuringAlong.com. Check out the Now page to see what I'm up to currently.

rosarugosa

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #84 on: July 03, 2012, 07:25:22 PM »
I'm clearly older than many members of the forum, but assuming I make it until Sunday, 7/8 (which is looking like a really good bet at this point), I will be tobacco-free for 6 months, which is pretty amazing after a 38-year smoking history.  Nicorette gum has been my best friend these past several months. 
DH and I quit together after he lost a kidney in January, which his MDs attributed to smoking.  So yes, we learned the hard way, but we might still look back some day and call this a lucky break.  Almost immediately after quitting, we started breathing better, stopped coughing, started sleeping better, have more stamina.  And we're both very proud of ourselves.  Oh yes, and we're not spending $400. per month on cigarettes.  There are so many pluses and virtually no minuses.  I had previously concluded that I was someone who was never going to quit, but I'm living proof that given the right motivation, anyone can do it.
Good luck to Brett, Noncents and any other Mustachians engaged in the good fight.  It is totally worthwhile!

Nishtha

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #85 on: September 05, 2012, 03:36:35 PM »
I've been following this thread since it was first created, and it prompted me to create an account and post.

Right now I'm 2 days smoke free, using "the patch" - as I've had relative success using it to quit in the past ( for 45 days ).
I've been smoking for 4 years now and to echo what people have said earlier...I think this time will be it, because I really WANT TO quit.

I can also vouch for the "toothpick" idea as well, as that tends to provide a bit of relief.

I hope we can revive this thread and help all our fellow Mustachians gain freedom from this horribly expensive habit that is such a detriment to your health.

~Cheers

arebelspy

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #86 on: September 05, 2012, 04:32:47 PM »
Nice to have you here, Nishtha.  We're rooting for you!
I am a former teacher who accumulated a bunch of real estate, retired at 29, spent some time traveling the world full time and am now settled with three kids.
If you want to know more about me, this Business Insider profile tells the story pretty well.
I (rarely) blog at AdventuringAlong.com. Check out the Now page to see what I'm up to currently.

Kriegsspiel

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #87 on: September 05, 2012, 08:15:44 PM »
I'm at 10 months without nic'ing.  Wellbutrin + gum, worked as advertised (well, I guess not exactly, since it's off-label use...).

Nishtha

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #88 on: September 06, 2012, 08:19:28 AM »
Thanks arebelspy!  And gratz on 10 months Kriegsspiel, I was considering Wellbutrin to help quit - but I was a bit concerned about some of the rumors I've heard about the side-affects.

Did you notice any side effects during your use?

arebelspy

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #89 on: September 06, 2012, 08:50:43 AM »
I was considering Wellbutrin to help quit - but I was a bit concerned about some of the rumors I've heard about the side-affects.

Did you notice any side effects during your use?

..you are smoking..

Cigarettes..

Which give you cancer.

And you're worried about side effects of something that helps you quit?

Just stop, and think about that for the moment.

Even if it does have side effects, at least you're only taking it for a year or whatever?  Whereas cigarettes you could be smoking for the next 20+ years.

That seems like a flimsy excuse to me.  (Not to mention there are other ways to try and quit.  Try a different one if you don't like that one.)
I am a former teacher who accumulated a bunch of real estate, retired at 29, spent some time traveling the world full time and am now settled with three kids.
If you want to know more about me, this Business Insider profile tells the story pretty well.
I (rarely) blog at AdventuringAlong.com. Check out the Now page to see what I'm up to currently.

Kriegsspiel

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #90 on: September 06, 2012, 10:29:59 AM »
Thanks arebelspy!  And gratz on 10 months Kriegsspiel, I was considering Wellbutrin to help quit - but I was a bit concerned about some of the rumors I've heard about the side-affects.

Did you notice any side effects during your use?

Side effects: you feel pretty good.  It's an anti-depressant after all :)

Nishtha

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #91 on: September 08, 2012, 06:36:20 PM »
First of all - I am on the patch still - NOT SMOKING. ( day 5 - taking it one day at time - see my earlier post ) - So there is no excuse there, just a general question about his chosen method.

My understanding of how that drug works is this:
You continue to smoke while taking the anti-depresant drug, Wellbutrin and Zyban block the nicotine receptors in your brain. So eventually your urge to smoke should lessen gradually over time and eventually you will have no desire to smoke.

My main concern with this route is:
1.)  you continue to pay for cigs + the cost of the medication, and you are still doing damage to your lungs
2. ) the drugs have a wide range of side effects
See the link for a full list of side effects-
http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-76851-Wellbutrin+XL+Oral.aspx?drugid=76851&drugname=Wellbutrin+XL+Oral&pagenumber=6 

Nishtha

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #92 on: September 08, 2012, 06:52:39 PM »
I'm surprised no one has done this yet, as it seems that Mustachians are kind of "Math-0-philes" by nature.

I'm going to post my personal math and motivation behind my desire to quit!
Smoking habit + cost
1 pack a day @ $7.50
Monthly health insurance charge for being a smoker = $ 70.00
Total Monthly expense: $295.00
Total Yearly expense: $3540
Total spent on ciggarettes since I started smoking ( 4.5 years ): $15,930.00

I am still to this day - shocked that I ever let it go this far, So thanks MMM community for inspiring me to try quitting again!

~Cheers

« Last Edit: September 08, 2012, 06:54:46 PM by Nishtha »

Kriegsspiel

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #93 on: September 08, 2012, 08:53:36 PM »
First of all - I am on the patch still - NOT SMOKING. ( day 5 - taking it one day at time - see my earlier post ) - So there is no excuse there, just a general question about his chosen method.

My understanding of how that drug works is this:
You continue to smoke while taking the anti-depresant drug, Wellbutrin and Zyban block the nicotine receptors in your brain. So eventually your urge to smoke should lessen gradually over time and eventually you will have no desire to smoke.

My main concern with this route is:
1.)  you continue to pay for cigs + the cost of the medication, and you are still doing damage to your lungs
2. ) the drugs have a wide range of side effects
See the link for a full list of side effects-
http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-76851-Wellbutrin+XL+Oral.aspx?drugid=76851&drugname=Wellbutrin+XL+Oral&pagenumber=6

Just read through the list of side effects, and I am nonplussed.  I'm not sure if that is the right word, but I really wanted to use it.  Anyways, pretty much all of those side effects are subjective, or things that could be caused by almost anything you do in the course of a day, so who cares?  Hell, maybe I did get "a feeling of restlessness or inability to sit still" and "gas", but since I wasn't already mentally primed to blame it on the Wellbutrin... I just didn't.

Nike that shit!

Kriegsspiel

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #94 on: September 08, 2012, 08:57:12 PM »
I'm surprised no one has done this yet, as it seems that Mustachians are kind of "Math-0-philes" by nature.

I'm going to post my personal math and motivation behind my desire to quit!
Smoking habit + cost
1 pack a day @ $7.50
Monthly health insurance charge for being a smoker = $ 70.00
Total Monthly expense: $295.00
Total Yearly expense: $3540
Total spent on ciggarettes since I started smoking ( 4.5 years ): $15,930.00

I am still to this day - shocked that I ever let it go this far, So thanks MMM community for inspiring me to try quitting again!

~Cheers

Hah, crazy.  I was a mouth-tobacco aficionado, which was less than half the price of your pack of cigarettes.  I also didn't have any hit on my health insurance (well... I didn't have any, I was in the Army).  It was still a big chunk of change that I didn't have to spend in order to be happy, so I stopped.  I actually quit about 5 months before I heard of MMM, so I didn't do the math until afterwards.

arebelspy

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #95 on: September 08, 2012, 09:01:50 PM »
My main concern with this route is:
1.)  you continue to pay for cigs + the cost of the medication, and you are still doing damage to your lungs
2. ) the drugs have a wide range of side effects
See the link for a full list of side effects-
http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-76851-Wellbutrin+XL+Oral.aspx?drugid=76851&drugname=Wellbutrin+XL+Oral&pagenumber=6

For what, a month?  Two?

Compared to smoking for 15-20+ more years?

No brainer to me.

Still, I'd say the patch is a better choice, so if that's working for you, go for it.  I just wouldn't worry about using something with side effects for a relatively short period of time to stop continual use of sticks that give you cancer.
I am a former teacher who accumulated a bunch of real estate, retired at 29, spent some time traveling the world full time and am now settled with three kids.
If you want to know more about me, this Business Insider profile tells the story pretty well.
I (rarely) blog at AdventuringAlong.com. Check out the Now page to see what I'm up to currently.

Darrell

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #96 on: October 12, 2012, 05:22:14 PM »
Hello everyone.

My name's Darrell, and I'm going to ask for your help. First though I want to thank Brett for starting this thread ... and I hope you are doing ok.

I'm a one pack a day smoker (25 cigs to a pack) and have been smoking for 40 years. Over that time I've quit twice ... the first time for 6 months, and the second time for two years. Why I started again is not really all that important. What is important is that I am quitting again, FOR GOOD. I'll be using a combination of weaning (I'm now down to 12-14 cigs a day and have been weaning down for the past two weeks) and Nicorette QuickMist (Fresh Mint flavour). My goal date to completely stop is two weeks from today - October 26th.

I have some goals for doing this ... the most important being Health (I'm 53, and over-weight also, and I recently have had a hard time catching my breath after doing anything even remotely physical - that scares me a lot). Next reason for me to quit is also very important - I am the proud father of two teens who I love deeply and I want to keep on being in their lives for a long, long time ... I want to be a grandpa! The third most important reason is my wife ... god how I love this woman - she has such a great heart and she loves me with all of it ... I get choked up just writing that down ... and she DESERVES all of the love that I can give her back for as long as I can. Forever and ever. Fourth reason ... I am so tired of this habit. Being controlled by something that I gave that control to. I should have the will-power to take that control back. Fifth is cost. Where we live (Inuvik, NT Canada) my habit is priced at $15.00 a pack. When I use MMM's future value weekly calculation that equals $78,960 dollars. That is so crazy and so, so STUPID. If I want to continue enjoying my first four reasons, and reap this fifth financial benefit, this outrageous amount of money... I NEED TO STOP.

This blog / forum is inspiring. This thread is inspiring. So much faith / wisdom / help being shared by so many people over the 'net. I want to tap into that ... please. I think that by my asking for help here, I'm putting this goal of mine on notice. I'm not fucking around. Thanks.

Darrell

wagonwheeljr

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #97 on: October 12, 2012, 05:30:52 PM »
Good luck to any of you that are trying to quit. I quit back in '05 after about 15yrs of 1-2 packs a day. I tried weening, Welbutrin(sp?) but when I finally had success was when I just decided that I didn't want to do it anymore. You have to want to stop and then just not do it every day for the rest of your life.

ErinG

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #98 on: October 12, 2012, 07:59:51 PM »
Hi Darrell,
I'm Erin. I'm new here and also smoke a pack a day. I've tried lessening the expense by rolling my own but it's still a waste of money. Plus, loose tobacco is not available in my state so I have to drive 20 minutes each way to get it. That means I'm right back to paying $7-$8 a pack if I forget to make the run or too lazy. Basically, I've cut down the expense but not enough and it's a shitty solution anyways since the financial burden of this addiction is only one of the problems. I worry seriously about health problems as well.
I'm with you on this challenge!!!! Let's do it!
I had my 1st telephone counseling session today with the Mayo Clinic (work provided benefit). They are sending me some materials in the mail. I don't intend to use Chantix or Bupurion (Wellbutrin) I have tried both in the past and I'm allegic to the Wellbutrin and the Chantix had adverse psychological effects on me. I didn't set a quit date with the counselor, so I'll steal yours. October 26, here we come!!
I had 1 good quit that lasted 43 days about 3 years ago. That was a cold-turkey quit. It worked pretty well, so I'm leaning towards that again, but I still have to review the info the Mayo Clinic sends me. I'm keeping my options open. What helped me before was www.whyquit.com so I will be revisiting that site. I also plan to work on my stress coping and self calming skills - REALLY REALLY work on them.
I hope you succeed and I think quitting smoking will be the biggest leap towards FI and good health that either of us could take. Please feel free to pm me.
Also - for any other smokers reading this thread - JOIN US!!!!!

Darrell

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Re: Punching smoking in the face!
« Reply #99 on: October 13, 2012, 09:20:33 AM »
Hello Erin,

I would be very pleased to have you do this with me! Thanks ... it feels right to have someone else in the same boat ... we can pull together and get this done.

I too have tried welllbutrin before and did not like the effects at all. The nicorette mist thing actually does work ... I like it ... when I get the crave for a butt I whip this gadget out, take a spray, and within 1 minute the craving is satisfied. Then I note the time (trying to pin-point down why I want the nicotine hit - after meals is one of my triggers) and move on to something to stay occupied. My family is trying hard for me ... going out for a walk, or talking, or maybe just playing a game of crib. I'm aiming to be down around 3-5 smokes per day by the 26th ... Q Day (q = quit). I also like the earlier mention of using flavoured toothpicks as a substitute and I'm going to use them starting on Q Day. We can do this!

And if, like Erin mentioned in her post, there are any more smokers out there that want to join in - PLEASE do.