According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “quitting smoking is difficult and may require multiple attempts. Users often relapse because of stress, weight gain, and withdrawal symptoms.” This statement is not much of a surprise for those that have tried to quit. However, there is still hope—quitting is difficult but it is by no means impossible.
One of the most effective ways to stop smoking is breaking down the process into multiple, concrete steps. Completing smaller tasks to achieve a larger goal can make what would otherwise be a daunting undertaking into manageable one-and one that is easily achievable.
How to Stop Smoking
- Set a Date and Stop Smoking—Having a set date to stop smoking cigars and/or cigarettes, allows you to make it definite. You will quit. It has the added benefit of illustrating clearly whether or not you are successfully taking the steps necessary to reduce or eliminating your dependence. If you are still smoking after your appointed date, it is clear that you are failing your task.
- Set a Goal—Quitting cold turkey can be effective, but it can also be extremely difficult; this approach allows you to ease into restricting your intake. Take it one step at a time, and cut back slowly.
- Find Alternatives— Concentrate on your personal relationships, sports, hobbies, volunteering and/or job.
- Commit to the Goal—Invest time and energy to reaffirm to yourself that you are doing this for your own benefit. When you remind yourself of your goals and the benefits of quitting, you provide yourself with new motivation.
- Seek Professional Help—Find a quitting method that works for you, either through professional therapy, acupuncture, yoga, or a treatment center.
- Stop Smoking Campaign Resources—There is an abundance of free online resources dedicated to helping you quit. Find one that works for you and give it a shot.
If you are ready to stop smoking there are a variety of options; suffice to say, there is no lack of answers for how to quit. But in the end, it is up to you to decide how you want to quit smoking. You can do it. If you are committed to quitting smoking, be ready for a healthier and better you.
