Day 17
“To believe in something not yet proved and to
underwrite it with our lives:
it is the only way we can leave the future open.”
-Lillian Smith
As you go through each day after quitting, it really can help to think about a few things. You can remember that each day you don’t smoke is another step toward becoming a non-smoker for good. Each day is another success, and it builds toward the end of your smoking urges.
As you probably know, the first week is the most difficult, but you may also have the most support during that time. When you first stop, you are very aware of the problems you face and you decide not to give in to them. You start to feel better. People around you notice your success and help you feel good about it. Later, though, the memories of the difficulties fade. You start to take the health benefits for granted. People probably stop noticing your efforts, although you still may be working pretty hard to make sure you stay off cigarettes.
Remind yourself every so often of what the first days were like. Most of all, tell yourself that you really are doing something good for yourself by staying off cigarettes. Keep at it! You’ll be very happy with your success.