Quitting smoking is by far one of the most difficult missions to accomplish. This is mainly because; it is not just a physical addiction but also a psychological habit. It requires major lifestyle adjustments that can be hard to achieve. It is best to have a personal plan. But, the following few pointers can get you started on your journey to quit smoking.
- Set a Quit Date and Inform Friends and Family
Choose a date within the next 10 to 15 days when to you will finally quit smoking. This gives you enough time to get prepared and plan in advance. If you quit just the very next day, chances of relapsing into the habit are higher. This might lead to loss of motivation. Also it serves one better to share the plan with one’s family, friends and colleagues. This gives you an extra reason to stick your plan of quitting. Ask for their support and encouragement during the rough times you’ll encounter when quitting. You might end up finding someone who wants to quit themselves. Having a quit buddy will also help you keep on track.
- Remove All Tobacco Products from your Home and Other Places you Frequently Visit
Get rid of everything that will even remotely remind of smoking. These things include cigarette packs, lighters, ashtrays and the works. Wash and freshen all those items that smell of cigarette smoke. Remove these items from your car and workplace as well, to build an environment conducive for quitting.
- Consult your Doctor and Prepare a Plan
The quitting process is going to be extremely difficult given the severe withdrawal symptoms such as cravings, irritability, insomnia, hunger, etc. Discussing your plan with a doctor will help as he/she can prescribe medications that will help with the withdrawal symptoms. They can also suggest alternative therapies such Nicotine Replacement Therapy which includes nicotine patches, nicotine lozenges and nicotine gum.
- Make use of E-cigarettes until you Completely Quit
If quitting cold turkey is not easy, make use of e-cigs which highly reduce the hazards associated with smoking tobacco cigarettes. E-cigarettes such as vaper empire e cigs are safer alternative to cigarette smoking. This is because the biggest danger from regular tobacco cigarettes is the smoke and e-cigs don’t burn. Tests show the levels of dangerous chemicals they give off are a fraction of what you’d get from a real cigarette.
- Avoid Common Smoking Triggers
Certain lifestyle changes are must if you plan to quit. Since you’ve been accustomed to smoking for such a long time, it’s deeply ingrained in your lifestyle. The following are a few triggers for smoking. Identify you own and avoid them at all costs.
- Alcohol: Many people smoke and drink at the same time. Either limit drinking or drink at places where smoking is prohibited.
- Fellow Smokers: Hang out with fellow smokers only when they are not smoking. Avoid situations when you’ll be alone when they smoke. This will highly increase your chances of relapsing.
After Meal: Most smokers are used to smoking after meals. Replace cigarettes with a delicious snack or gum.
