No More Excuses, Just Quitting!
Let’s be honest, quitting smoking can be very hard. However, quitting smoking is not impossible. It just takes a little work. One thing is for sure, we must remain positive and be determined to get the results we want. The American Cancer Society outlines some factors and tips that show you how to quit and remain smoke-free. These four factors are will help you on the road to quitting.
Make the decision to quit
Others may want you to quit but the true commitment comes from you. You are the only person that can quit and you are the only person that makes the decision to quit. Quitting smoking can only happen if you want it to! Think about the reason you want to quit, whether it be health, family, well-being, or cleanliness. Make sure to ask yourself, “Do I really believe in the benefits of quitting smoking?” Once you find your reason to quit, set a date and make a plan.
Quit Smoking
Pick the “Quit Day” and make a plan
Once you are ready to call it quits, you pick a “Quit Date”. Pick a date within the next month as your Quit Day. Ensure that the date you choose gives you enough time to prepare. However, do not pick a date that is too far away. By doing this you allow time for yourself to rationalize and change your mind. The date can be a specific celebration or simply a random date. You should make a strong and personal commitment to your Quit Date.
There is no specific way to quit smoking. Some people quit cold turkey, other use prescription drugs and others reduce the number of cigarettes they use until they do not have to use cigarettes anymore. Nicotine substitutes can help reduce the withdrawal symptoms, but they work best when they are used as a part of a stop-smoking plan that addresses both the physical and psychological components of quitting smoking. Here are some things you can do to make sure your Quit Day is a success.
- Tell your loved ones about your Quit Day
- Get rid of all cigarettes and ashtrays
- Stock up on substitutes – sugarless gum, carrot sticks, hard candy, cinnamon sticks, coffee stirrers, straws, and/or toothpicks.
- Set up a support system
- Keep active
- Drink lots of water and juices
- Avoid situations where the urge to smoke is stong
- Drink less alcohol or avoid it completely
For more information about quitting smoking, visit www.quititnow.com, and to read more information provided by the American Cancer Society just visit the hyperlink.