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Comment by gaius | Hacker News Reader

I've never smoked (cigarettes) but I have often envied that a smoker could go and just sit, alone at the bar say, just a moment of peace and calm, and it wasn't weird that there was a guy there just staring into space, because he was "having a smoke" and that was an activity in and of itself. Or on a park bench or just anywhere. I sometimes fake playing with my phone, just so I can do it.

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Indeed. Since I quit smoking I miss the inarguable excuse (not just to others but myself as well) that smoking offered to leave a party, go outside, stare into the night's stars and just relax while pondering the universe and my own insignificance.

Can anyone think of a good non-carcinogenic substitute?

A non-smoking table. We have one at work.

It's mostly empty, though.

Vaping.

Easier said than done, but wake up an hour earlier and go for a run. Don't need to kill yourself, just go outside or to the gym or something.

Although it won't give the same social protection, chewing a gum is a ritual for me and helps me relax. I started this habit after seeing it on the show House of Cards and to my surprise it is really effective for me :).

I think you can always say that you need some fresh air and go out.

A book :)

Realizing you don't need an excuse to do what you like doing.

Taking a moment to relax and gaze at the stars or enjoy a coffee on your own just sitting there lost in thought is as good an activity as having a smoke. I really don't see people judging other people for it.

Or if you're actually looking for an activity not an excuse, just thinking about a interesting topic/problem and writing down the thoughts going through your head on your phone (or even better onto a piece of paper/notepad, no interruptions) can be an very satisfying activity I found out.

Really helps me to focus on whatever I'm thinking about too.

Former smoker here, currently vaping. Weaned myself all the way down to zero nicotine, preparing to take the plunge and give it up altogether. I've already recognized that the physical act of having a smoke is more addictive for me than the nicotine. I've come to the same conclusion that you did. I need to find a phone number that I can call and listen to a recorded message or something, just so I will have an excuse to escape outside and disconnect for a few minutes.

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