[catchaway1]

Habits actually make it worse for me because I go through on autopilot and then I have no way to confirm mentally if I skipped a step or not.

What helps me the most is to actually make a mnemonic to remember that I did something when I did it, by closely paying attention to my specific actions. For example, if I lock the door, I will specifically check my watch and note the date and time and that yes, I did just lock my door right then. I find I can get relief by referencing that timestamped memory, whereas with truly habitual behavior I still need to double check. Using a mental checklist or something would probably be a good option too, but then I have to compose the checklists beforehand and it's a pain.

I do think there is something to be said for the age question, although starting at 19, I think I was passed the main formative period. Actually I think the most important thing is the # of years, since I would not be saying these things after 1 or even 2 years of smoking, but only now almost 3 years later am I starting to get concerned.

[UrMomReadsHN]

>at 19, I think I was passed the main formative period.

Not in the slightest. That doesn't happen until 25. :)

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=1411647...