Generally, most smokers don't know why they smoke. Some spend countless hours during their years of smoking trying to answer this most perplexing question.  Myself, being an ex-smoker, I didn't have the foggiest idea why I got up every morning and had that cigarette to start my day. It was like the normal thing to do. All I knew was I had to have that morning smoke due to one simple fact...  nicotine addiction. It's definitely a stinky way, to start your day.   Some of the answers and excuses smokers come up with are that they smoke because they enjoy it. Some say it's because they are unhappy, unsatisfied, nervous, bored, anxious, lonely, tired or just frustrated without their cigarettes.  Other reasons often quoted are that cigarettes help them breath better,  keep them thin, make them more focused, or that they are more sociable while smoking.  Some claim that they smoke to celebrate the joyful times of life.  Food, drink, fun and games, and even sex all seem to lose their appeal without an accompanying cigarette afterwards.  After hearing all of these great excuses to continue smoking cigarettes, I find myself amazed that I, and millions of other long term smokers have successfully given it up. Yes, there will be triggers. But once you start feeling good again, the benefits will far outweigh the desire to ever take another drag.

All ex-smokers should be proud and applauded for their great accomplishment in overcoming the many obstacles created by their addiction.  Encountering the initial quitting process creates a state of emotional insecurity and self doubt.  Will I ever be able to survive in our complicated world without my cigarettes?  Once you become totally free of the grip which cigarettes exert upon you, you'll be able to get a clear perspective of how many misconceptions you had about the benefits derived from smoking.  Actually, you'll look back in dismay and wonder, why did I ever let smoking control me? Being drug free after years of enslavement brings a sense of relief and accomplishment that a smoker never anticipated.  To their pleasant surprise, they discover the marvelous fact that there is life after smoking.  It is a healthier, calmer and more pleasant life.  They now have a choice as to whether or not they ever wish to smoke again.  If they look honestly and objectively at the advantages and disadvantages, the logical choice is to remain ex-smokers. You will have to remember one thing.... Smoking is a drag and it only takes one drag to become a full fledged smoker and all that comes with it. Nicotine dependence, shortness of breath, lung damage, Circulatory problems plus the smell, inconvenience and expense.