Ashtray Confessional

topic posted Thu, January 15, 2004 - 11:18 AM by  Mike
No one, even my quit buddy know this:

At a recent convention, only days after my 6 month, I slipped and smoked some puffs of a cigarette during a drunken spell.

I've been hiding this --- what do I do?

Anyone else have advice for those who have sinned?
posted by:
Mike
SF Bay Area
  • MO
    MO
    offline 6

    Re: Ashtray Confessional

    Thu, January 15, 2004 - 12:08 PM
    That's a tough one. The one thing I would say is don't let it discourage you. I know for myself, when I slip I feel horrible which cycles me right back into smoking full time - the worse I feel about things in general the more apt I am to smoke. Rather than let that happen, acknowledge that you slipped and think about why - what were you trying to recapture and did you really need a cigarette for it? Also, remember the amazing progress that you have made!

    Also, it's easy to think "well I had a few puffs here and nothing happened so I can have a few puffs now and then without consequences." This is another mistake I've made in the past. There are consequences. Those few puffs here and there quickly turn in to regular smoking. I think it's the "it won't happen to me again" mentality.

    Most of all, stay focused on your goal.
  • Unsu...
     

    Re: Ashtray Confessional

    Thu, January 15, 2004 - 2:51 PM
    Mike-

    Just keep your eyes on the prize and the NICODEMON will stay at bay!

    Think about what you did: What caused you to break down? What were you doing? Were there any triggers beside you drinking? What, in the future, can you do to eliminate these triggers?

    We all fall from grace -- but that doesn't mean you can't get right back up there!
    • Re: Ashtray Confessional

      Thu, January 15, 2004 - 9:15 PM
      Yeah, there's a big difference between slipping up once and going back to smoking. Remember that there are many, many reasons to be happy you've quit.

      You smell better. You taste better. You have more money. You'll live a lot longer. You have more stamina. Think of the freedom that comes with not needing to light up. Non-smokers rock!

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