Hello, This is my first quest here. Guess I should go into my past a little, might shed light as to why I am seeking help on the internet. As an introvert, I spend a lot of time alone, on the computer, playing video games. This lifestyle led to a near fatal embolism in my lung (more than one, actually, but whatever) about three years ago. I was nearly 300lbs, pack a day smoker, and about as lethargic as a brick. Since then I've decreased my weight over 50 lbs, am in the best shape I've ever been, I even quit smoking for over a year. I'm still an introvert in an extroverted world, which brings a fair deal of depression, and for that I started smoking again (this was a year ago). I exercise at least five days a week, for more than hour a day, I aim for all 7 days, however. I really do not have any one goal I am trying to reach, the journey is the goal itself. However that said, there are many many many things I wish to accomplish. Such as: Being Smoke-Free. I think the most important thing, right now, for me is to free myself from this addiction. It's a definite obstacle to my progression. The hardest thing I ever even tried to accomplish. So, any support is very appreciated. My family smokes, so reliable they are not in this department. (They also have terrible diets, but I won't go there...yet) Quest 1: Mindfulness. Staying mindful of the addiction. I am addicted to nicotine. Awareness of cravings. "This is not a panic attack, this is addiction." Quest 2: Meditation. Useful to overcome the cravings, temporarily. To meditate morning and night, and when sudden powerful cravings hit during the day. Nerve calming tool, anti-anxiety. Quest 3: Exercise. Meditation is great for a temporary fix. Exercise is the ultimate tool. Who can smoke when you're jogging around the parking lot at lunch time? My biggest challenge is smoking right after I wake up in the morning. I am hoping 20 push-ups and 40 sit-ups will break that habit for me. Life Quest. Being smoke free will enable me to save money, but one would have to be able to control their finances to even notice. So my life goal is to have more wealth. (not to be confused with earning more) I want to be able to spend less, save more, and not wonder where my money has gone. Phat Loot! So there it is. I would think the rewards could speak for themselves. In case they're not: 1. Enhanced state of being.
