Tips For Those Ready To Quit Smoking

If you are a smoker, as satisfying as the habit may be, there will come a time when you will want to quit. The main reason for quitting is ultimately the long-term health of yourself, as well as those around you. There is also the added benefit of money saved from no longer feeding your habit. This may not seem like a big benefit at first, but over time, the savings can be HUGE.

Most people who have quit smoking will tell you that it is a very difficult step to take. In many cases, it can be one of the most difficult tasks someone may undertake in their lifetime. There are steps you can take though, that may help you in your quest to quit.

The first step in quitting is to establish a time to quit and stick to that date. If you know of someone who is also looking to quit, join forces with this person and quit at the same time. That way you can establish a support system between the two of you, which can make it a little easier to stay the course.

Before quitting try to establish where, when and why you smoke. Look for patterns that lead you to smoke. Routines you engage in that involve your smoking. That way when you're ready to quit you can try to avoid these routines to help eliminate the urge to smoke.

When the urge to smoke hits, try to fight the urge as long as possible before giving in. Try to visualize something pleasant to take your mind off it. Maybe chew some gum instead, or enjoy your favorite beverage. This can help make your transition a little easier when your day to quit arrives.

Switch to a brand of cigarettes you don't like. This can make your enjoyment of smoking a little less pleasant, which can help with your transition.

When your start day finally arrives, be sure to get rid of ALL your cigarettes and any other tobacco products. Out of sight and reach, out of mind.

Change your daily routine from what it was when you smoked. If you normally have a smoke with breakfast, try to replace your cigarette with something else.

When you feel the urge to smoke, be sure to do something to occupy your time. Exercise could be the answer. Take a walk when the urge hits, or any other form of exercise you may enjoy. Not only will this help minimize the urges, it will also help your overall fitness and help get your lungs back into shape.

Always carry something with you that can easily be used as a replacement for a cigarette. Gum, toothpicks, lollipops and things of that nature are great to help alleviate the habit of having that cigarette in your mouth.

Think positively. When the urge strikes, you may feel agitated. When this feeling hits, convince yourself that smoking is not the solution and that this mood will pass. Your perseverance will be rewarded if you choose not to give in to your cravings.

Reward yourself. Set mini goals and reward yourself as you reach each goal you set. An example would be for every week you remain smoke-free you then reward yourself with a favorite food, an evening out, or any other activity or item you may enjoy. The choice is entirely yours. Staying smoke-free IS an achievement and one worthy of reward.

Take the money you normally spend on cigarettes and put it into a fund. This could be a bank account, or simply a jar set aside. As the money piles up, you'll see the money you've saved. This can be a great motivation to continue on. This money can also be used as your reward fund, to reward your perseverance.

These are just a few tips to help get you started. Talk to others who have been successful in quitting. Chances are they may have a few creative tips of their own. The main thing to remember is to stay strong and not to give in. It's a difficult task to achieve, but once you've done it, you'll be happy you did.

Michael Russell Your Independent Stop Smoking guide.