- Make a list of all the reasons you have to quit smoking
Identify in which situations you are most likely to grab a cigarette. If you know when these moments take place (e.g. after dinner) you can think of a way to deal with the situation (e.g. eat an apple or a stick of gum after dinner)- Set a “Quit Smoking” date on the calendar. It can be tomorrow, next week or the 1st of January.
- Tell everyone you know about your plans to quit smoking. If you tell your friends and co-workers, one of them might join you in quitting smoking.
- Get rid of everything that reminds you of smoking.
- The best way to quit smoking is to stop “cold turkey”. This can increase your chances of success.
- Also change your eating and drinking habits. It’s good to drink a lot of water and to eat a lot of fresh fruits. Be careful with ‘social drinking’, such as morning coffee with colleagues, tea and alcoholic beverages. The consumption of these drinks is often associated with smoking.
- Make sure you get enough personal relaxation time. Go for a walk or ride a
- bicycle…these and other types of personal exercises are good for this.
- Reward yourself! With the money you save from quitting smoking, you can probably afford a nice relaxing holiday, or fatten your bank account!
- If you have a relapse after having quit, don’t give up. Take note of the situation that caused it and try to think of a better way to respond to it next time. If you get through the situation without a relapse, you’ve become stronger.
- Sometimes you can’t do it on your own. If this is the case, try to quit with the help of a friend or colleague. Or find help in the form of counseling.
- Remain alert and keep control over your emotions. Make it a ‘way of life’ Even when you’ve quit smoking these tips will make you feel more comfortable with yourself.
TIPS FOR QUITTING SMOKING
17
Apr