It’s no secret that a very large component of a nicotine addiction is the mental aspect. It could be that smoking makes you feel powerful or adventurous on some level. It could also just be that it has been a part of your life for a very long time and it is a comforting behavior to you. Regardless of the reasons behind your mental addiction to this destructive behavior, just recognizing how it affects your life can be the first step to overcoming the power it holds over you. Read on for some perspectives that highlight the mental benefits of giving it up once and for all.
Rather than focusing entirely on the psychological reasons that you are addicted to nicotine, try looking forward to the benefits of living a life free from its grasp. Ponder the concept of respect and what it takes to earn it, not only from others but from yourself. Someone who conquers a strong addiction such as smoking cigarettes will almost always be held in high esteem and admired. This can lead to a self-confidence that spreads to other areas of your life, making you a more positive and productive person.
Let’s face it: cigarettes stink. If you smoke them, so do you. Even though most people will avoid telling you so, the smell that comes from your mouth, your clothing, your home and your automobile is repulsive to anyone who is not a smoker. If you are single and dating, you will especially benefit from being smoke-free. The majority of non-smokers will avoid avoid dating anyone with this habit, as it signals weakness and potential health problems in the future. Do yourself a big favor and eliminate this obstacle.
If you associate with others who do not smoke, you will find yourself doing more active and healthy activities. Smokers are generally less active because smoking affects your lungs and heart. Smokers also spend their free times smoking, rather than going for a walk or exercising. If you are not smoking, you will also encourage others not to, which can lead to having friends and family who live better, more productive lives. This is particularly important if you are a parent, as the example you give to your kids can determine whether they develop this deadly lifelong habit.
Remember all the money you will save when you quit smoking and imagine what you will spend it on. At least in the beginning, use all your savings to splurge on something for yourself. Do not feel guilty about this – just do it. This helps you to mentally feel satisfaction that you are missing from not indulging in cigarettes. Put that same need for indulgence into buying things that you want but have been unable to afford. This will give immediate rewards for your efforts.
These are just a few things you can do to win the mental battle of nicotine addiction. Change your frame of mind and you will very likely change your destructive behavior of smoking.