As you already know, smoking cigarettes is not only a bad habit to break, but also a habit that can have severe consequences on your health. If you've wanted to stop smoking -- now is the time to quit.
Helpful Advice
When it comes to quitting smoking, there is no one size fits all approach. Some people tapper off gradually, others get hypnotherapy, while others decide to stop and do so on their own. The most important hurdle (and often the hardest one) is to make the decision to quit AND COMMIT TO IT 100%.
Remind Yourself Why You Want to Quit
It can also be helpful to understand why you want to quit. Whether it's for health reasons, the expensive cost of cigarettes, or something else, you will be more successful if you have a purpose for breaking your habit. If at any time you feel you may start smoking again, remind yourself of this reason.
Nicotine Replacement
Many smokers transition away from cigarettes using nicotine-replacement therapy. While these alternative can be helpful, make sure you don't use these AND smoke cigarettes. Since many people find the act of smoking relaxing, e-cigarettes have been a helpful alternative for them.
- Nicotine Patches
- Nicotine Gum
- Nicotine Inhalers
- Nicotine Lozenges
- Electronic Cigarettes
Get Help
You don’t have to go through this challenging process alone. Even if people are angry at your for smoking, they will be supportive if you are serious about quitting and haven't lost their trust. Therefore, once you make the final decision to quit smoking, tell your friends and family and ask for their support. Be clear on what you will need from them and give them specific directions (ie; if I call you with the urge to smoke- remind me why I'm quitting and talk me out of it).
You might also consider getting hypnotherapy treatment which has helped thousands of people quit smoking. Enrolling in online tobacco awareness class is another good resource. Taking the initiative and being proactive improves your momentum.
Don’t Give Up
If you make the decision to stop smoking, then stick with it — no matter what! Have a plan for what you will do when you feel tempted and remind yourself every day that you are strong and in command. Prepare yourself for this tug of war and become a warrior.