What to say in your intro? Share where you're from, your reason for joining, perhaps your favorite fragrance, watch or a picture of you dressed sharp! It's a small action, but a HUGE step in you getting value from this community becasue you go from being a lurker to an ACTIVE member. In fact men that introduce themselves are 10X more likely to the actions to becoming their best selves. Bonus Point - By introducing yourself you're guaranteed to level-up. Seriously, you'll get at least 5-20 likes/points (oftentimes more) which will move you to level 2 and possibly level 3. And just like that you have access to more of this community!

Twenty four years ago today, I made a decision to change my life for the better. I sat in my first AA meeting with a bunch of people I did not know and made a promise to myself that on my 30th birthday I would be one year free from tobacco and alcohol. I gave up a lot of other things, too, but this was the day that I went 24 hours without a cigarette in one hand and bottle in the other. That decision gave me my power back. I was in control again, and I had my whole life ahead of me. It was definitely a struggle. I had to change everything about myself. It started with little things - waking up in the morning and drinking grapefruit juice to block the nicotine receptors, freshen my tongue, and slow the cravings. Finding something else to do with my hands, and not taking that mid afternoon smoke break. Going home and having a glass of water or a soda without any "extras." I woke up every day and told myself "I am a person who doesn't smoke and doesn't drink, so let's go about being that person." I pretended to be that person until I became that person. Eventually, after two years, my family rewarded me with a vacation. I chose San Diego Comic Con, and it was there that I discovered a renewed sense of joy and creativity that led me to photography and the career and life I've had till now. It hasn't been an easy road. But every day that I have walked away from it, I have walked toward a better life and a better future. My old sponsor has been kind enough to send me a new coin every year. They are not official, but they mean a lot to me. I keep it in my pocket to remind me of what I can overcome if I set my mind and my feet in the right direction. This year's might be my favorite so far. And I'm wearing Telegrama. That barbershop scent with lavender and spice reminds me that, like getting your hairs cut, sometimes you have to trim the old things off to let new growth take its place. If you're struggling and need help, please seek it out. There are many of us here who I'm sure have been through it and willing to lend a hand. There are lots of support groups out there, too, and I'm sure we can help you find one.