[Stormieweather]

They are not mutually exclusive. Not if you want them (both) badly enough.

I quit smoking after 34 years of 2-4 packs a day. I had delayed for such an inexcusably long time because I didn't want the weight gain that went with it. I tried only once, years before, and gained 40 pounds.

So this time, I decided I could and would do it. I set a quit date (05/22/09) and announced it to absolutely everyone. I took a couple days off work after that date and I set up some projects requiring heavy focus. I joined the YMCA and I joined My Fitness Pal to log my calories. My mind tried it's best to talk me out of not smoking..giving me loads of excuses and delaying tactics, but I refused to cave in. I told myself over and over that I COULD DO IT. I argued that I was stronger than some stupid weed in a piece of paper. The first three days were hell, after that there was only the occasional urge, easily overcome.

And I did it.

I also lost 15 pounds and 2 clothing sizes. In the next two years, I lost another 30 pounds and more clothing sizes (went from a 14 to a 4).

In addition, I am totally off the asthma meds and inhaler.

I am planning to run a Warrior Dash, a Zombie Run, and a 5k in the next year. I feel a thousand times better and I have a much better chance of seeing my daughter grow up.

So it is doable. Absolutely. But you have to want it more than you want that next smoke and that extra slice of pizza.


ETA: I have tons of hobbies and fitness pursuits. I avoid doing any single thing too much as I have an addictive personality and try to keep my life varied to stay out of the addiction rut.