Addiction and compulsion is not something easily understood unless you or a loved one has gone through it, so I don't expect much understanding in this situation. My message here is, I'm kicking ass now and things are getting better by the day.

Like you've said "we've all got our vices", so kudos to being able to share your story and doing what you must to stay focused on what you want to achieve.

Besides, maybe your story might help another to change his/her way or rather let that person know that he/she isn't alone in this struggle.