Well, I’ll be honest with you. Today was a piece of cake.
But there is a huge reason why it was so easy.
Today I got 3 cavities filled at the dentist. Not the most painful visit in the world, but it sure did numb my mouth for a good 4 hours. Plus I could barely open my mouth. I really didn’t have any cigarette cravings at this time.
Who would realistically?
But that really is beside the point, because I’m sure if I hadn’t had a dentist appointment today, the cravings would’ve been in full swing. But, they weren’t.
I had a few moments of withdrawal, but they subsided within a minute or two. They didn’t last long, and I immediately knew what they were.
However, there is one thing I thought of during the day that struck me hard.
I was thinking, “What would I be doing right now if I were still a smoker?” That is an excellent question.
What would I be doing?
I would’ve still gone to the dentist, yes, as that appointment was made a long time ago.
But what would the last 6 days had been like if I had never quit? What would I be feeling right now?
I’d probably be feeling pretty horrible. In fact, I know I would be.
If I had never quit, I know I would’ve tried to quit 6 more times.
I never accept being one, because I hate it so much.
I can’t even stand the thought of going to bed with a couple of cigarettes left over for the morning. If I do that, then I’m screwed for the entire next day, so I have to get them wet or destroy them the night before.
It’s a ritual, but I refuse to accept it.
I probably would’ve gotten drunk at least 3 or 4 times in the last few days as well.
Whenever I try to quit smoking and fail, I punish myself by drinking a lot, so I’d feel as horrible as possible the next day.
Not because I’m a problem drinker, but to teach myself a lesson about smoking and staying quit.
Though the idea is somewhat logical, the follow-through is almost always a failure.
Feeling horrible the next day brings negative thoughts, which makes relapsing once again even easier than before.
The cycle continues.
I know I have more money now than I did before. I’ve put every penny into the bank since I’ve quit. Of course I haven’t saved much, as it’s only been a few days, but I haven’t spent it on foolish things, either.
My apartment is beginning to smell clean again.
I noticed my bedroom still has lingering ashtray smell inside, but that will go away with time. After all, I smoked in my bedroom for 8 years straight.
Most of the time the windows weren’t even open. I’m sure the walls are stained.
I’m also much happier now than before. There are a lot of positive things happening in my life and it seems like the pieces of the puzzle are putting themselves together finally.
It’s a great feeling.
The sun is shining, tomorrow is my day off, I’m going to get lots of things done (which most likely would not have been done before) and I’m looking forward to it all.
Now I have to remember that tomorrow is only Day 7, and I still have 2 weeks to go before nicotine is out of my body for good.
So I still need to focus hard, even if I don’t feel a thing. I need to play this smart, and come out victorious.
This isn’t even close to being over yet. But I’m happy I’ve made it this far.
It feels really good to be in this position. I can’t imagine what Day 100 will feel like, but I’m going to give it my best shot. I deserve it!
Day 6 about to come to an end. Still struggling. Living in Florida has been another long, hot and humid summer. Getting anything done outside is impossible, unless I want to have a heat stroke. Looking forward to cooler weather and getting outside and in the flower beds again. Being retired and pent up inside is really depressing when you’re trying to quit smoking. Not to mention this whole thing with Covid. There’s virtually nothing to do or anywhere safe to go. My husband and I went to Home Depot today, and after walking back and forth twice, I was not in the mood to deal with the expanse of the store anymore or anyone in it. I couldn’t wait to get out of there. Once out then he lights up a cigarette. That’s okay though. I made the decision to quit smoking, not him. He’ll eventually quit after I’ve done it successfully.
Day 7 fast approaching.
Day six cold turkey and feeling very edgy, glad I live alone because. Decided not to go to gym today as my mood was not conducive to interaction with gym brahs. Nibbling food throughout day, all in all day sucked but still happy I’m not smoking.
It’s day 6 of cold turkey and I didn’t have a puff even though I had some strong cravings in the last few days. Strange part is, I wake up with a feeling of guilt/shame in the mornings as if I broke my promis and smoked previous day- they I need to remind myself that in fact, I didn’t smoke for the last x days.. strange, but probably part of the process
Day 6… A bit of a sore throat, some tough cravings, anxiety, and indigestion. Moody too – I’m definitely at the zero patience step. I actually got mad at my tap because the water took too long to get warm.
The tough bit for me has been the sort of anxious feeling I get during a craving, which seems to lead to more anxiety, and then takes longer to pass as I get into my own head.
Sleep has been spotty too – hoping to get some good Zs tonight – doing some lemongrass & ginger tea with a murder book. That should zonk me out… unless the book is a barn burner – hmm, maybe I’ll read something from the non-fiction shelf instead.
Day 6 and it was tough . First time in my life that I went fishing without some form of tobacco product . I know that sounds weird ..fishing ? But they always went hand and hand for me . I made it through by eating sour patch kids and sun flower seeds. My buddy wanted to have a few beers after but I was mentally spent . Received a text later saying oh you can’t hang out with us anymore ..crappy text to receive.. I think they are worried they are going to lose a friend ..they smoke a billion cigarettes a day ..anyways, right now I’m trying to take on one trigger at a time ..sad part my buddy smoked and dipped the whole time while in the boat with me .. actually helped because it smelled horrible and I just made fun of him the whole time ..ready for day 7
I am on day 6 and I woke up super sweaty today. I have had lots of craving upon waking up but I do feel happier than the last five days. I haven’t been on a “day 6” in awhile and I am proud of my progress. This thread is amazing and I am very glad this was started. Cheers to all of you.
I feel like I’m choking today and have no energy.
Day 6
Was rough in morning ,could not get out of bed ,bloating has gone as well as pain around chest , I think it was tension,I have a bit of a cough, other than that bring on day 7
days 2-4 where really bad
Am on day 6 I feel great I have to take it one day at a time
I am on Day 6 now too. I had quit for 5 months before but like a dummy went back when I went to my summer job. Now that I’m back home, I decided to quit again. This time for good.
What helps me is to make the effort to just not buy cigarettes. If I don’t have them, I can’t smoke them, right? This might be easier for me since it’s just me and my girlfriend at home and she doesn’t smoke and no one at work smokes. Also, I smoke menthols and my city has banned them from nearly all stores, so buying them is a pain in the butt.
Hang in there. You got this!
Yesterday was ridiculously tough, today was better. Actually there are gaps in my head when I don’t think about smoking. It is amazing. It is not first time I give up smoking, but never longer than 8 months. I hope this attempt will be completely succesful as to go through first days again – really not want. I found that jogging helps tremendously – feeling your lungs while running scares all the cravings away. Of course, after 20 years of smoking I do not jog very far, but I make almost 3km and it really works magic with cravings.
Also meditation – half an hour sitting takes cravings away instantly.
Im on day 6 myself.Ive been taking Chantix to help the withdrawals so far wonderful results.The really big complaint is im having dizziness.Does anybody else experience this.I vow to never start smoking ever again.Thanks to this cite.
I’m also taking chantix what day are you on taking chantix I myself have 2 weeks and 1 day for the first go around I don’t think I will need another 3 months of chantix though it has helped me immensely. MOST OF ALL GOD has helped the most with my quit journey.
i have the nicotine lozenge i hope they work for me to stop 100%
Are you still off them Donna, im on day 6 but I haven’t had a Decent night’s sleep since my quit day
I’m on Day 6. My problem is not craving a cigarette, but is anxiety attacks and nervous jitters. Is that normal? When will they go away.
Starting day 6 today. It’s been easy so far, because I’ve been at my parents-in-law the whole week. As we leave there today, I’m scared that a couple of things don’t go my way over the next few days and so I lose it and relapse. I keep thinking this is a process, and that helps. I liked the comment a few below that we don’t want our kids to ever see us so weak.
I wouldn’t say that was normal, well maybe for some. Try cutting out caffeine as thats more likely to cause anxiety etc.
Day 6 for me I still want to have a smoke but I won’t cave and do it, I don’t want to start over again. I know I can do it I just have to get through these hard weeks. My mouth feels cleaner and I smell nicer, the smell is starting to disappear from my car. I just have to take one step at a time I can do it.
That’s me too, I don’t want to start over. Day 4 was probably my worst day with cravings I’m only looking foward.
Thank you Matt for your website! It must feel great knowing that you are helping save people’s livelihoods and lives.
Today is probably my 50th day 6. I’ve been smoking for over 20 years. This time I have broken up with everything and everyone I associate with cigarettes. No more pool league, no more Mikey and his tat shop, no more Jason, no more Mari and Sam, no more bars and beers. At least for now. I need to focus on me. I am important. Smoking has been my best friend my entire adult life, but I hate that b!+<h! Time for a new best friend. Hello gym and taekwondo. Hello yoga and long hikes by the beach. Hello to painting again!
Day 6! All I really feel is anger. Anger at myself for being so goddamn weak for so long. I hate myself for allowing this to happen to me. For allowing my children to see me so weak. I look in the mirror to see the reflection of a sallow sunken wrinkled face and I feel anger, for I am no longer the beauty I used to be. And its my fault. I did this to myself. Smoking, I HATE THAT B!+<H! NEVER AGAIN. I'M SO OVER YOU! PACK YOUR SH!+ AND GET THE HELL OUT OF MY LIFE YOU NO GOOD LYING SCUM OF THE WORLD. MELISSA IS BACK AND I DON'T NEED YOU ANYMORE!!!!
Mateo big hugs to you. Milissa I agree it is time to get pissed off and be ready to fight for our lives and the lives of those we love. Thinking on what Mateo said about “if I was still smoking what would I be doing” so great that this thought is hindsight for one thing yaeee. Just about said small victory but it is a huge victory. Day 6 begins, woke up feeling better, although my mind thought about my old friend sickerette, I quickly jumped in the shower to wash off leaching toxins for fear they would soak back in lol. Check back in tonight for an update on how day 6 went 🙂
Nicotine is out of your body within three days of quitting.
Wow, Thanks! I love the attitude! Going to join. My day six, feeling strong and
so tempted. F that I got this. 2.5 packs a day, bs!
Hey, I’m Jen, in day 6 of no nicotine. I read your entry and I feel the same way. Please tell me you didn’t start again. NO MORE!!
You said it girl!!
Day six today, woke up feeling burning in my chest, I want this to be the last time I ever do this. I’m so happy to be a non-smoker!
Hey Liz , I just read ur comment on day six. I know it was some months back but I’m on day six today and I’m starting to crave like hell. Any suggestions that u can give me? Please don’t hesitate and I know ur body has to feel much better. Thanks, Imani
Cant even count how many times ive relapsed. I am on day 6 commited to seeing it though this time. There is just no other way but through this door. Even if it means dismissing a few casual relationships. Each time ive relapsed for the long term has been because ive began seeing someone who smokes and i will not do it again. I must say goodbye to my old life and old habits completely.
Hey Micheal, I just read ur comment and I to am on day six as of today. I have had no cravings at all until today and yes I was around someone that smokes. Do u think that reflected my craving?? Please respond thanks, Imani
It’s so helpful to hear how other people are making it through the struggles of quitting smoking.And it’s insuring, even when they’re having a hard time because it’s immensely difficult and we get to share each other’s ups, downs and progress!This really helped me, especially since a lot of the people I know still smoke and I don’t think they really want to hear about how dann hard it is to quit.It takes guys, courage and determination.Prayers help a lot too.Thanks so much for making this blog possible and thanks to all of you who share your story.
Oct 22, 2018
Hi Mateo, I came across your blog searching on the internet for help to quit, 47 yrs of smoking for me, spent many yrs trying to quit
Found your blog on day 3, and have been reading everything, you make so much sense. I appreciate the Raw Truth, no sugar coating in your blog and that’s what we smokers need, quitting isn’t “wine and roses”
I look forward to reading your calendar of daily struggles and triumphs, I don’t look ahead but read whatever day I’m on to see how our days compare, it really helps to know that what I’m experiencing is normal and I’m not alone in my struggle. Love reading others comments as well.
Today I start day 6, so far day 5 was the worst
Thank you for this site, it’s the best!
I made it to day 6. A few urges but they passed.
I have tried so many times to quit before . I am 59 and smoked too many of these years.
OMG just realized I have only had six days in a week for 45 years instead of 7 yiks. After smoking 20 or more cigs a day at an average of 7 minutes but adding a few more for getting the ash tray, lighter, finding a spot, washing the ash tray etc including if your at work and have to walk to the spot so lets say 15min per smoke one way or the other. so 15 x 20=300(3 hrs) plus 3×7=(1 week)21 that’s 21 hours a week dedicated to smoking whoa which means a 6 day week. Hang in folks we can do this.
15 x 20 = 300 min, which equals 5 hours! So even worse. You have it at 3 hours.
This has absolutely helped me. Day 6 today and a bit better, days 4&5 were hell for cravings, I do not want to go through that again. I will keep reading this site
Lol Ok your right Mateo but in my defence I am not playing with a full deck right now. Good to know you are still out there so thanks for the update. 🙂
Hello all! Great site & thank you for sharing! So today is day 6 for me. I quit smoking for a year before, but then ended up picking it back up again.. Its a struggle. After that I tried to quit smoking countless times and failed, and so, I am trying once again. Of course I want to light up a cigarette first thing in the morning, when I am on the phone, during my breaks at work, after work, before I go to sleep, after meals, etc.. I am also emotional & have been crying as everything is annoying me even more. I know that what I am feeling is normal. I am trying to see this as a positive thing. I am currently wearing the nicotine patch & it seems to really help ALOT. I mean of course the cravings are there, but not unbearable. I would strongly suggest to anyone out there, trying to quit the butts, to try nicotine replacement therapy. What also seems to help me, is watching the “quitting smoking commercials” as they are pretty frightening! Smoking is like a mental game. Think of all the money you are saving, and how your health will be improving day after day after day. There are no benefits to smoking, not one. We think it relieves stress, but in all actuality it adds more stress. Anyways just wanted to say how I was feeling, and share some ideas. Stay strong! 🙂
Great webpost and site, Im on day 7 myself and just like you have tried several times to quit and failed in past.
My traditions like a good cup of coffee or tea with the nasty cigs is the hardest part in the morning but im doing really well now
Day 6 is almost over… I spent the last 4 hrs desperate … today and the first 2 days were the worse for me… but im crying everyday and always sad this is so not me … when will this get better … I don’t want to give in.
Nearing the end of Day 6. I’m loving all the positives of being a non-smoker but i’m still having a hard time with cravings in the evenings. I went to the gym to burn it off. It helped a little. I keep biting my tongue because everything irritates me. Will these cravings ever end? Or is it a battle for life?
How are you today? I’m on day 7 today and I’m curious to know when it’ll get better.
Day 6 today. I am doing this for my kids. I am a non-smoker and will be for the rest of my life. Trident cinnamon gum is how I get through the cravings. One day at a time. Never one puff again. We are NON-smokers.
Perfect and yes we are non-smokers.
After 15 years for me finally I am able to say this.
I am on day 6. It’s been smooth so far. Much better than day 4 which was my worst.
Have started to taste and smell things much better and I’m dwelling on these positives to ward-off cravings. I’ve also been training quite hard which has helped tremendously. In fact, I couldn’t quite work out on Day 4 and i think that made it the worst day so far.
Really happy and inspired to Read all the other experiences. Good luck guys! Stay quit!
I AM on day 6 HERE. I have smoked for 14 years. The cravings HIT me hard but I breathe through THEM…Without wheezing! I QUIT because I couldn’t stop coughing. But WHAT I have realized, is that I started smoking due to divorce. I don’t need it anymore. I don’t need him and will not hold on to that feeling through my smoking habit anymore, either. On day 6, I can smell everything! I don’t sound like a smoker when I laugh. (I MISSED my laughter.) I DON’T wake up coughing and thinking I might die. I can even SMELL my skin again, instead of lingering, caked on smoke. My teeth feel CLEAN all day.
The CRAVINGS are small compared to all of those wonderful things.
On day 6 and very proud of myself. Just watched the first football match without smoking. It wasn’t the easiest but I made it.
If it wasnt for this website i HONESTLY dont know what i would Do! Day 6 for me today although Day 5 Has been tHe HARDEST. Just HAVE to keep reminding myself I cant start again…..its too painful physically and Mentally. Keep drinking loTs of water and eating fruit and vegetables….boring yes but keeps the bloatiness away!
Its day 6 for me too and I must say day 4&5 were the toughest. The cravings hit and you feel you’re about to give in but thankfully I occupied myself and didn’t slip up. I smoked menthol’s so whenever a craving comes along I pop a mint in my mouth and breathe in really heavy. That seemed to help with the craving 🙂 Good luck everyone!
Today is day 6 FOR me. Cravings on and off, but I know they will pass after a few minutes. Moody though. Hopefully that passes soon enough. Have noticed chest tightness that wraps around my back behind my lungs. That’s been a little painful. The weekend is here. Praying I can get through it. I’m committed.
I am on Day 6 today. The cravings peaked yesterday. Its pretty bad today too. I am barely able to concentrate at work. I am reading online success stories to keep me motivated. One more day and I can breeze through the weekend.
How are you doing Now?
Me too! Today has Been the hardest!
Day six for me. So far day four was the worst. I had insomnia and cravings. I smoked for 30 years and loved every one. Im in a fight for my life and cant believe im actually doing it.
Hey Amber, how are you making out?
So it’s day 6 for me. I’m having a hard time getting out of bed but it’s been like that all week. I noticed yesterday how I went for longer periods of time without thinking about a cigarette. I’m in yoga training today so my mind should be more focused. Overall I’m excited to see more changes in my body and I’m more dedicated than ever!
Day six I smell great! I have DONE a lot of cleaning lol… finished all my emails and have generally been a little hyper. But honestly the best part is I have focused on my family, put them first for 6 days! It is horrible to think that anything could have so much power over me to override time with my family
On Day 6 today and I have to say…days 1,2 & 3 were not as hard as day 4, 5 & 6. These cravings are intense!
I used Allen Carr’s book. Very effective but even though he’s effective, I’m still having such a hard time. But i will say this: my lip color is changing back to pink (it had darkened from smoking), I am less winded, have started working out either bootcamp or yoga on alternate days. Most importantly, I woke up this morning and I could smell the beautiful shampoo smell in my hair. It’s weird, but that was my anchor all day long.
No. cigarette. smell. on. my. hair. or. clothes.
I’ll keep posting…but according to Allan Carr, it takes 3 weeks. 21 days. I’m only on 6.
I am half way though day 6. Doing pretty good at ignoring my cravings. Day 2 was the absolute worst. Really hoping that it only gets better from here on out. I don’t think I could handle another day like day 2 again without giving in.
Everyday I say I really would love a smoke and really want one….does that feeling ever go away???
Of course it goes away!! I don’t even think about it anymore, and my body does not crave nicotine in the slightest. Just keep going and you’ll make it!
Thank you for telling me it goes away. That is soooooo reassuring!! Day 6 done, and now on to day 7.
Mateo, Thanks for this website because it really helps to read people’s stories and that I am not alone.
On day 6 today and I feel pretty good except for the occasional craving. I have found that a really cold glass of water or juice can be helpful for cravings. And if you are religious a prayer when feeling like you’re about to throw in the towel helps tremendously. The best juice is orange juice and take shots of it. Stay encouraged people. Don’t give up. I’m not gonna give up no matter what
Today is my 6th day as a non-smoker. I feel OK except a few bouts of chest wheezing and a few arm pinches from anxiety and stress. I’m happy, though. GOD is good. Thank you Jesus for helping me go cold turkey as a truck driver.
This is so helpful. Day 6 for me today. The weirdest thing is that most days start out awful, I wake up in the morning and hate having to face the day without smoking and feel like that until about 3pm and then I start to feel much better. I think it’s because the day is almost over and I know I will just be going to bed in 5 or 6 hours. I loooove sleeping now. Thank you for your helpful words.
Mine is the opposite. Every morning I am so happy to be a non-smoker, then gets tough late afternoon. Day 6 was so rough, yesterday was so easy. Can’t wait until each day is easy!
Day 6 for me today, I know I won’t be going out to buy Cigarettes. It’s only 9:24 am. Gonna be a long day.
Think of things to occupy your time with instead of dwelling on smoking all day. Cook a really nice meal for yourself. Enjoy the outdoors. You can do it!
It’s Day 6 for me today. It has been one of the two hardest days for me so far. I’ve done this before but never had the feelings that I am this time around. I smoked for over 30 years. Not packs a day like some but still smoked everyday. I have been on the internet all day looking to spend time with my hands busy, but also to find out strategies. The last three hours have been the toughest today. Your blog has given me strength to ward off these next few hours. Thanks!
That’s so awesome to hear. Thank you!!
I felt as if someone was reading my mind. Thanks this really helps.