Ask any smoker who wants to quit smoking. The answer is the same. There is nothing more difficult than executing stop smoking goals. It is one addiction that is very hard to give up. So, how should one proceed?
The first thing to do is to write down why you want to quit smoking. There is nothing more powerful than defining your goal. You can always go back to what you have written and be motivated by it
Next, set a date and work towards it. Don’t give in to the desire to have a single puff. That puff becomes a full smoke very quickly, and your best intentions will go up in smoke.
Set a time frame to get rid of everything that you associate with smoking. This includes ashtrays, lighters, match boxes, everything. Keeping a lighter for a just-in-case scenario is a subconscious acceptance of the fact that one day you plan to return.
Keep yourself occupied. This will keep your mind off cigarettes. Also, reward yourself for not smoking. Successful quitters agree that the reward principle is an effective one.
Cut down on alcohol and caffeinated drinks. Drink a lot of water. Buy a large supply of raisins, gum or snacks that you can pop into your mouth whenever the urge to smoke hits you. What most smokers miss is the act of putting something into their mouth. You can also keep your hands busy by carrying a stress ball or a doodle pad.
Do something physical like taking a walk. This is more so when you are stressed. Most people reach for a cigarette when they are stressed. If you reach for a pair of walking shoes instead it’s a double benefit.
Be more proactive about spending time with non-smokers or those who have quit smoking.
If you slip, take it with a pinch of salt. Everyone does. Some fail many times before they kick the butt. Just analyze what went wrong and start all over again.
