Allen Carr1 on quitting smoking:

[Carr] recommends working to really notice and internalise that disconnect [between what we want and what we enjoy]. He tells smokers to pay attention to their next cigarette. It’s like mindfulness but for noticing the unpleasantness.

The gap between what one wants and what one enjoys…

want but do not enjoy

  • to check Twitter
  • third daily cup of coffee
  • jewelry I forget to wear
  • buying makeup
  • continuing reading past 11pm

enjoy but do not want

  • leaving the house on a work night
  • making plans with friends
  • language practice
  • washing hair
  • careful application of condiments on sandwiches
  • mugs of tea
  • wearing makeup

  1. via McKinsley Valentine via Kottke ↩