You already know how bad smoking is for you. There is no way to know how truly terrible it is, since it is different for everyone. However, you know very well that it is not a practice you should continue. Therefore, it’s important that you finally stop smoking. That can be difficult, but here are some smart steps you can take starting today to stop your nicotine addiction.
The first thing you have to do is to make a final decision not to smoke anymore. That can be tricky, as most people think they want to stop smoking for different reasons but discover that in fact, they like to smoke more than they want to quit. That is why it’s important for you to simply find a reason that is worth quitting for. It could be your family, it could be your health….whatever it is, make sure it is a reason that is motivating enough for you to do anything for it.
Next, get rid of everything you have that is related to smoking. You may not want to part with that favorite lighter, but you have made a decision that you no longer want to smoke, so everything related with that habit must go. Now, if you really want to keep a lighter for sentimental reasons, put it where you cannot get to it. Perhaps you can let a friend hold on to it for a couple weeks.
Get a distraction. More than anything, you are going to wonder what to do with that time you used to spend smoking. You may not think so, but you will! That’s why it’s important to fill your social calendar with events. It’s important to keep yourself going so that you don’t notice or care that much that you used to smoke cigarettes.
Start exercising. When you exercise, you feel healthier. Couple that with the sense of taste and smell that is slowly returning to you, you will feel like a million bucks! Exercise can also stave off any weight gain you are afraid of because you stopped smoking.
Talk to people who also quit. This can be a source of inspiration and support for you; after all, people who don’t know what it’s like can mean well but not understand what you are going through. An online forum or a local group can help you get over your cravings and see that quitting can be done.
Don’t get discouraged. If you can’t quit right away, it is okay. If you have one cigarette here and there, that is okay as well. Don’t beat yourself up every time you slip. Just renew your commitment and try again. These cigarettes are addictive, so of course it’s going to be a bit hard at first. You can do it.
After reading this article, you should be ready to finally stop smoking. Use the ideas in this article to help you give up cigarettes, and you will discover that life is richer when you are healthy and not smoking.