Does an ex-smoker ever stop desiring the occasional cigarette?

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   MarieLBposted 2 years ago

   Does an ex-smoker ever stop desiring the occasional cigarette?
   
   Do you know an ex smoker who does not still yearn for a cigarette from time to time?
   Do you know how a successful ex smoker has managed to stick to the goal [of no smoking] ?

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2. 82

   Austinstarposted 2 years ago

   It took me years to finally quit smoking. And yes, I did crave cigarettes for years afterward. But I have finally reached the point where I do not crave them at all now.
   I would say that it took about five years of non-smoking before I got to that point.
   You have to stay away from smokers. Every time they light up, it will trigger a reflex desire to smoke.
   But do stick with it. I promise, it gets easier and easier.

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      MarieLBposted 2 years agoin reply to this

      Same here, Austinstar.  Tried and failed many times, yet now, I am free of them.  That is the way I see it.  I see that you too have made it past the point of being 'hooked'.  Well done.

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      Venkatachari Mposted 2 years agoin reply to this

      I appreciate both of you. It seems both of you are much bold and determined.

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3. 81

   Diana Leeposted 2 years ago

   I smoked for well over thirty years. I quit September 18, 2012. I was stupid not to have done it years ago. I still get a craving now and then, but it last mere minutes and I am stronger than that urge. I will not pick up this ugly habit again.

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   1. 81

      MarieLBposted 2 years agoin reply to this

      Another brave lady who beat the demon smokes.  You did it before I did.  Frankly I do not have dates but I am glad I do not have to find space in my bag for the bulky pack etc. . .Well done Diana.  You too are in the club of the Free.

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      Venkatachari Mposted 2 years agoin reply to this

      Thank you Diana, for your brave decision.

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      MarieLBposted 2 years agoin reply to this

      My apologies to Venkatachari M.  I called you Diana, and that was because I had just typed an answer to her.  Hope you were not upset over it.  I tend to make these errors.

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4. 81

   MarieLBposted 2 years ago

   Thank you Austinastar.  That makes two of us- at least- who have won the contest.  I am so happy to know that I am no longer required to ensure I have enough ciggies and to carry a packet of same, and a working lighter.  Free of all that.  Free of the frustration when I cannot light up.  Do you feel that way too?   
   
   Diana L Pierce:  Believe me, you will forget about it.  I cannot even remember the date, or even the year now. 
   
   I think it is a matter of what you tell yourself about it.  What I told myself was "I may or may not make it.   No matter, I shall try. If I don't get there, I shall try again, and again, until I WIN."  That is how I saw it.  A fight to the death beatween me and the cigarette.  I won.  Ha!Ha!!  He laughs best who laughs last!!

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