When you make the decision to quit, it can be a tough one because you aren’t sure how to do it in the best way. No one wants to quit four or five times, after all. You simply need to know what to do in order to make the first time the only time. Here are some ways to make that happen.
Make a real commitment to not smoking anymore. This is what catches people every time. People feel that they ought to stop smoking cause cigarettes aren’t good for their health…but they end up smoking again because they didn’t really want to quit at all. You need a strong reason to quit so you stay in the game. Think about why you want to stop smoking, and don’t let go of it for one second.
Next, you should talk to your doctor. A doctor can fully explain all the options you have when you want to stop smoking. Nicotine patches, Chiantix and electronic cigarettes are all very popular, but find out about the side effects of each one and decide which might suit you. The answer might be that none of them suit you–be prepared for that possibility as well.
Don’t quit cold turkey. While some people can quit immediately, the withdrawals and cravings are the most difficult to deal with that way. The easiest way to stop smoking is to gradually cut down. That way, you gradually reduce the nicotine in your body until you don’t need it anymore.
Talk to people who have quit. They can be great role models, and show you that it can be done. Talk to them about what worked, what they did about cravings, and how they have replaced cigarettes in their lives. It can be a great experience for you to talk to people who were once where you are.
Start exercising. Not only will exercise get you in shape and help you to flush out years of nicotine toxin, you can also stave off weight gain everyone thinks they’ll get when they stop smoking. If you are a sedentary sort, you don’t have run a marathon right away, but anything you can do to move a bit more every day is going to help.
Do a lot of self-care during this time. Don’t pick up any new addictions, and make sure that you get plenty of rest and healthy food during this time. When you are rested and have a full tummy, you are better able to deal with quitting.
Don’t give up on yourself. If you have a cigarette, it’s not the end of the world. Nicotine is addictive, remember? That’s why you have to be gentle with yourself. Don’t coddle yourself though, get back on that wagon!
Quitting smoking is not the easiest thing in the world. However, it doesn’t have to be the hardest thing in the world either. Use these tips to give yourself a plan for quitting, so that this time is the time that you will finally kick the habit.