Hi I'm new, I hope I won't be a burden... prt 3

[Barrybran]

When she asks to stay on the line, do you feel she NEEDS you or "wants" you? If she's had a rough day at work, a negative interaction with a family member, whatever, she may need your support and it's OK to listen to her concerns and validate. When she's done, you're done and you get off the phone. If she just wants to chat, she's trying to control you because she knows she can do that. You've got your own life, remember? You're a strong, independent man who has better things to do, right? She wanted space and now she's invading yours. You know her better than us so you should be able to tell the difference between a genuine need and controlling behaviour. If you don't, there's something else for you to learn.

How do you feel about quitting smoking?

It's early days but well done on not initiating contact. Read the rules and live them. You CAN do it.

PS. MrBond is right about your feelings and your excuses. Only YOU control what you let affect you and to what degree. There are books for that but for now, keep reading DB/DR. Also, no more excuses; make it a 180.