2 weeks free today!

I was a 20 year smoker, essentially, I quit a couple of times in there but never for long. Recently, I was diagnosed with heart issues that necessitated quitting truly to save my life. While it's made some parts of quitting easier I'm still struggling with some things. Guilt, for going so long and causing more harm to my heart. Sadness, for losing a relationship with a part of myself that I had grown used to (even though it's a part I'm good with growing from, it was still a long term situation and change IS hard). Frustration, because there's no easy "relax" button anymore and I have to actually work on managing my anxiety in a healthy way. Nothing worth having is going to be totally easy, so I embrace the suck in those moments because they will pass.

The good definitely outweighs the bad. I'm sleeping better. Making healthier food choices. I'm more present and friends and family say they've noticed I'm brighter and seem happier. I've renewed my knit and crochet hobby and am making plans with my mom to hike the Camino de Santiago in 5 years. I haven't made a long term goal in years.

For those that struggle, it's worth sticking with the plan. I'm only 2 weeks in, but I know this time it's going to stick. And I'm happier than I've been in years.