Mentalechoes

I was a hardcore smoker for about 5 years, from 31 to 36. Generally in the order of about a pack a day of Marlboro lights, and two packs a day on weekends when the socialising would hit high gear. It was sometime during 37 when I thought I’d better give it up while my lungs were still in my chest and not in a science exhibit labelled “THESE ARE A SMOKERS LUNGS… WE’RE NOT KIDDING”.

So I made a few attempts to quit, unsuccessfully. I always ended up going back to the smoking team after brief hiatuses when I thought that I could smoke just a couple and it would be fine. And from there, it wouldn’t be long before I was up to a half a pack a day again.

Then over the course of the next year from 37 to 38, I had such a busy job, I could only really get outside to smoke maybe twice in a day. I just couldn’t spare anymore time and so I naturally got down to about 3 a day, which I kept up with for about a year.

Now, at 39, I find myself actually not smoking anymore because I have days where I just forget to go out and smoke. I’m in that enviable position where I don’t get nicotine cravings. If I do smoke the odd cigarette, it’s because I feel like being social and enjoying one with the group. But now I can smoke one, and then forget about it again.

I think it’s good to be able to tolerate a cigarette every now and then. After all, it’s an important social skill, and necessary when mixing with a drinking crowd. But if nothing else, I think I’ve conclusively proven that it is possible to quit smoking by forgetfulness. Sure, it might take 3 years, and results may vary depending on what type of job you have. However I think it would make a good alternative to traditional treatments such as patches, and doubling your food intake.

Andy.

Tags: smoking