Quitting isn’t about proving toughness—it’s about choosing freedom, one day at a time.
I’m going to be honest—quitting cigarettes is something I talked about doing for a long time.
I’d say it. I’d mean it. I’d even plan it. But then stress would hit, routine would kick in, and next thing I knew I was back in the same cycle. That’s what habits do. They don’t just live in your hands… they live in your patterns, your triggers, your emotions, and your “autopilot moments.”
But today, I can say this:
It’s been 27 days since my last cigarette.
And it’s been going better than I expected.
The Patch Has Helped More Than I Thought
I’m using the patch, and I’m not ashamed to say it—it helps. I used to think quitting had to be “cold turkey” or it didn’t count. But I’ve learned something:
The goal isn’t to prove how tough you are. The goal is to get free.
If something supports that freedom in a healthy way, I’m for it. The patch doesn’t remove every craving, but it takes the edge off enough that I can think clearly and make a better choice.
I’m Already Breathing Better
One of the biggest reasons I needed to quit is my health.
I have COPD and asthma, and while it’s controlled well with steroids and inhalers, I know cigarettes were basically pouring gasoline on something I’m trying to put out.
Even in 27 days, I’m already noticing changes:
- My breathing feels better
- I don’t feel as tight in my chest
- I’m not as winded as I was
- I feel like my body is finally getting a break
That’s a big deal. Because when you have COPD and asthma, breathing isn’t something you take for granted. Breathing is everything.
The Cravings Are Real… But They’re Predictable
This is the part that surprised me the most: my cravings aren’t random. They have patterns.
For me, the cravings hit hardest:
- In the morning
- After eating
- In the car
Those are my “old habit zones.” Times and places where my brain learned: this is when we smoke. So now I’m learning something new: this is when we choose better.
Sometimes I chew gum. Sometimes I sip water. Sometimes I keep my hands busy. Sometimes I just ride the craving out like a wave and remind myself: it will pass.
Because it always does.
Prayer Has Been a Big Part of This
I’m not saying that to sound extra spiritual. I’m saying it because it’s been true.
When a craving hits, it can feel loud. It can feel like it’s taking over your body for a minute. But prayer helps me slow down and remember what I’m doing this for.
Prayer helps me interrupt the moment. It’s like I’m saying, “God, I don’t want to go backwards. Help me stay on the path.”
And a lot of times… it works. Not because the craving disappears instantly every time, but because my mind shifts from wanting a cigarette to wanting freedom more.
It’s Easier Than I Anticipated—And That Gives Me Hope
I really expected this to be harder than it is. Don’t get me wrong—it’s not “easy,” but it’s easier than I anticipated.
And I think there’s a reason for that: when you finally get serious, when you finally decide, when you finally commit—your brain starts cooperating a little more.
Also, I’m not doing it alone. I’m using tools. I’m using support. I’m leaning on God. I’m paying attention to triggers. I’m working the process. And that matters.
What I’m Learning From Letting Go
Quitting cigarettes is teaching me more than just how to quit cigarettes.
It’s teaching me:
- I can change, even when I’ve done something for years
- A craving is not a command
- Triggers can be managed
- Progress is built one day at a time
- God meets me right in the middle of the struggle
And maybe the most important one: I don’t have to keep doing something just because I’ve always done it.
If You’re Trying to Quit Too
If you’re reading this and you’re trying to quit—whether it’s cigarettes or anything else—here’s what I’d tell you:
Start where you are. Use the tools. Be honest about your triggers. Celebrate your days. Pray if that’s part of your life. And don’t let one hard moment convince you to throw away your progress.
You’re not starting over every time you struggle. You’re learning. And learning is part of change.
Today I’m 27 days in. And I’m not going back.
By Josh Bridges
YOU {R} NOT ALONE YOU HAVE A VOICE! 