Great for socialising though . Smokers have more fun at parties since you end up chatting to other smokers whilst outside in sub zero weather sucking on your death stick.
And damn do I miss a cig after dinner
It was exactly the social aspect of smoking that I liked the most, now that I look back at it.
Smokers have an easier time establishing a bond, when placed in new groups like work or school. They meet up at the designated smoking spot and chat while smoking. It's a great ice breaker.
I found that I had an easier time, when having to do group work, than non-smokers since there was already a loose connection with the other smokers. It was always the non-smokers, who were having difficulty finding group mates.
I now vape on an e-cigarette instead. Still go with the smokers, so I have not lost the social benefits :)
I highly recommend giving e-cigarettes a try, for any of you smokers out there, who are having a difficult time, quitting the habit.
I'm aware that it's in no way healthier, but am convinced that it's less damaging. Anecdotal, yes, but it sure feels like a better alternative. Tried nicotine gum, band-aids etc., but I guess there was more to my addiction than just the nicotine. The rituals of inhaling and fondling with something. It's the only thing that's worked for me.
"I know that it's in no way HEALTHY*, but..."
You also are only burning tobacco and inhale almost no plant matter. I would give it a try. I feel better with that than with e-cigs.
But I agree otherwise. My wife’s parents both lived into their late 90’s but had lost most of their cognitive ability for the last 5 years - so much they couldn’t live independently. Not sure that’s a great alternative death.