iguanamountain blog

HARD RESOLUTIONS

Blog City Prompt: What is your formula of sticking to New Year's resolutions or any other promises to yourself, after making them? 

My first real resolution was way back in about 1970 when I decided to STOP SMOKING. I was up to a pack a day of Malboros. I also realized I could not stop without STOPPING THE DRINKS. Every time I had a drink served at a bar with friends, I had to have a cigarette. The craving is incredible. The alcohol weakened my resolve, so cold turkey (as they say) I stopped. It was the hardest thing I have ever done. Talk about cutting off your social life.

I think I was rather antisocial for a while and didn't go out much. I did a ten-day fast that really helped clear out my system and reinforce my belief in my self discipline. Going without food and only having water was easier than the stopping smoking. I did it and never went back. I can handle a glass of wine occasionally. Cigarette smoke bothers me a lot.

I am the child of an alcoholic and my step-mom died from lung cancer. I have personal experience of those effects. Working in the movie industry, I was surrounded by smokers. It is a personal thing and one can't judge or say much. Just take care of yourself.

I think the early discipline as a dancer and the daily classes, then teaching gave me a life-long sense of responsibility to self. Now as a writer, all I have to do is sit down and write. Sometimes that's a minor hurdle. All I can say is..."Write on!"

Peace>>>iggy Happy New Year everyone!

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