Although this book is inspired by modern neuroscientific research, I am no scientist. But I used to smoke. A lot. Whenever I possibly could, I’d plan my daily activities so they’d fit in with my pr...view moreAlthough this book is inspired by modern neuroscientific research, I am no scientist. But I used to smoke. A lot. Whenever I possibly could, I’d plan my daily activities so they’d fit in with my precious smoking habit. And if I couldn’t, because I had to work or because my friends and family insisted on having lunch inside the restaurant, instead of sitting outside on the lovely terrace in the freezing cold wind, sleet and snow, I’d feel downright miserable. The whole thing was such a hard work, but I was an addict then, prepared to struggle on until the bitter end.Then one day, I had what I can only describe as a blink-and-you’ll-miss-it moment of clarity that occurs all too rarely in an addict’s life. Even more amazingly, I acted upon it: I quit smoking. It took a little while for my brain to adjust, but I knew that the recalibration process was inevitable – providing I gave change a chance. So I stayed out of the way. Kept busy. Stuck my fingers into my ears and hummed whenever the old junkie head tried to break my resolve. Days passed, and they kept passing, until one day I suddenly realised that I was free. I really am a happy healthy non-smoker, today. I certainly don’t miss it. Life really is much better on this side of the smoke screen.view less