Quitting smoking.

A few things that may help in the difficult battle.

Think like a soldier going into battle since this actually is a life and death battle. A soldier learns everything he can about his enemy and the one that knows the most tends to win.

Triggers are your enemy. Make a written list and carry it with you, update it often. Alcohol, coffee breaks, :coffee2: meals, driving etc etc. The big deal breaker is unexpected stress of any kind.

Try to see it coming. A soldier sends out scouts. Do a scouting ritual in the morning when you get up. Do it again at noon. Take the path that avoids as much stress as possible. Walking into danger is a recipe for defeat. :banghead: :sad4: Some people are irritating. Limit those interactions (tough if its your wife :boxing: ). Recruit her to join the cause. :-#

For the things you can't avoid, be ready. If you see it coming, you can put in place a mental "chock" that keeps the brain from activating into its craving mode. A chock works to keep things from getting moving.

A mental chock is the soldier on battle alert. It starts with a firm affirmation, "I will not let this situation defeat me". For those who believe in prayer for strength this is the time.

A soldier has weapons for countering attacks. Find out what works for you and make a written list. Carry your weapons. Distraction can take many forms. Use alternate activities like a walk, reading, call a friend, snacks, etc. :bball: Put some serious thought and effort into developing weapons. You are a soldier! A craving attack usually subsides within about 2 minutes. You can fight that long.

For motivation think of those who you love and love you. A soldier is willing to die for his country, but does more good if he lives. You must fight to live for your people. Your life is more important to these people than you can imagine. They need you to stay alive. There is nothing more powerful than the love of others to generate unselfish power to overcome hardship.

If you haven't set a quit date yet be smart about it. A lot of thought went into the timing for D day. Planning is critical. If you don't have energy to put into planning, examine your life to find the barriers. It's a fight worth fighting.

Hope that helps someone.
Merry Christmas!