Quit smoking, tips for not giving up!

There are no two ways around it – quitting smoking is tough. It may take several tries in order to quit smoking for good. It is important to acknowledge that we all make mistakes, no one is perfect. You might have the odd set back or two but you’ll get there.

If you do end up having a cigarette after you have told yourself you are going to quit for good then accept it as a natural mistake and don not get down on yourself. Setbacks happen to a lot of people just don’t fall back into the same old routine. Instead of grabbing a second cigarette recommit yourself to becoming a non-smoker.

It also helps to plan ahead for ‘quit’ day and for the days which immediately follow. Quit day is a day to celebrate. Mark the occasion by getting your friends together and having a non-smoking party!

Or if you would rather mark the occasion more privately do something instead to treat yourself. Go out for dinner, a movie or take a long walk in a park.

Also celebrate the end of your first full day of being a non-smoker. While you still have a long way to go, you have taken the most important step.

The most challenging times ahead will be those occasions when you would light up without even thinking about it. It’s important to learn how to deal with the routine behaviour of smoking when you are with friends, watching television, having a coffee etc.

In the first few days, it’s important to alter your routines so you aren’t tempted to smoke on routine occasions, instead try going for a walk or enjoying a healthy snack. Also consider spending more time with non-smoking friends.

I will post more smoking cessation tips in the coming weeks. Until next time, I wish you all the best in your efforts to quit smoking.