Quitting smoking will likely be one of the most difficult things you have ever done, and the journey to kicking the habit will be paved with temptation and frustration.
If you’re planning on giving up cigarettes, or you’re already a few weeks into your quest; these tips will come in handy.
1. Clear up
Get rid of any cigarettes and lighters you have hanging around the house, the car or your desk at work. Out of sight, out of mind – you don’t need that extra temptation.
2. Ask your loved ones to support you
This is especially true of your smoker friends – they need to know that it’s no longer OK to smoke around you or offer you a ‘sneaky’ cigarette.
3. Avoid smoking areas
Whether you’re on a night out or at lunch with colleagues, you’ll likely walk into a ‘smoking area’ at some point. Rather than going along with the crowd, politely excuse yourself and walk away from the temptation – they will understand.
4. Eat well
If you’re hungry or lacking in vital vitamins or minerals, your body will get rundown – and this is prime time for your cravings to raise their ugly head. Ensure you’re eating three nourishing meals a day, so you don’t end up burned out.
5. Distract yourself
This is an addiction that you need to break, so you’re going to have low moments where you’re severely tempted. So, when you feel that craving a-lurking, you need to distract yourself. Go outside for a walk, meet a friend for coffee, or have a stash of gum or healthy snacks to hand.
6. Get active
Sitting at home in front of the TV is an invitation for those cravings to pop up. Get out, and get active. While exercise will focus your attention away from your cravings, as time goes on and activity gets easier, you’ll see your health steadily flourish.
7. Have a ‘buddy’ for support
You will need someone to be there for you, to offer love and encouragement in those low moments. It could be a friend who is an ex-smoker, or a loved one who is also trying to kick the habit. When you need a boost, they will remind you of why you are trying to quit.
8. Have a backup plan in place
There will be moments where expert help is needed – perhaps you’re about to light up, or you already have? In these situations, it’s helpful to have a hotline number to hand. Or why not write down a list of reasons why you’re trying to quit, and keep this close? Or in some instances many people take up vaping to decrease the urge to smoke.
