7 Easy Quit Smoking Tips

Are you trying to kick the habit? Eighty percent of smokers want to be smoke free, yet most people have an easier time getting off of narcotic pain-killers than they do quitting smoking. Billions of dollars are spent annually on smoking cessation programs with little long term success. Successfully quitting smoking is a task that requires serious commitment and resolve. The sad reality is that only 2-3 percent of people quit smoking successfully on an annual basis. Those that do quit smoking have usually failed at least 2 to 3 times prior to succeeding, so it pays to be persistent. There are many self help tips to help quit smoking, although none are miraculous when combined into an organized program they can be helpful. Here are some tips to quit smoking that just might work for you.

Tips to quit smoking #1 – Have a plan

Write out a plan to help quit smoking and focus on the numerous health and financial benefits of being smoke free. Schedule a target date to quit smoking and stick to it. Many experts encourage smokers to quit smoking when the weather is warm and sunny which seems to increase levels of important “feel-good” brain chemicals. Avoid trying to quit smoking if there are stressful events in your life and don’t try to quit around the winter holidays when stress and frigid climate might work against you.

Tips to quit smoking #2 – Out of sight, out of mind

Throw out all your tobacco products, lighters and ashtrays. Dry clean or wash as much of your clothing as possible. Deep clean and deodorize your house to eliminate that tobacco odor. Do the same to your car and office work space.

Tips to quit smoking #3 – Get moving

Anticipate how to cope with the withdrawal symptoms. Most people experience irritability and hunger as their bodies go through nicotine withdraw. Since you’re going to have some additional free time, why not replace smoking with a healthier activity such as exercise? Medical studies have consistently shown that smokers who engage in strenuous aerobic exercise have a much higher rate of successfully quitting. Exercise enhances release of natural “feel-good” chemicals called endorphin, relieves stress, and helps to minimize the weight gain you could experience with smoking cessation.

Tips to quit smoking #4 – Pat yourself on the back

Schedule small rewards for yourself to keep your morale and willpower up in your battle to quit smoking. Get your teeth whitened if you successfully quit smoking for a month or two. Schedule a relaxing spa session if you remain smoke-free for another month. Use incentives that are reasonable and motivating, preferably healthy ones.

Tips to quit smoking #5 – Get support

Enlist several close non-smoking friends and family members in your quest to quit smoking. Ex-smokers are great allies since they understand what you’re going through.  Avoid announcing your intentions to all your co-workers. You’ll likely become annoyed by the badgering you’ll receive from casual acquaintances about “how the quitting smoking is coming along” Stay way from other smokers. Go to only smoke free restaurants. Take a walk instead of a smoke break. You don’t need pressure from people who have neither the interest nor the discipline to quit smoking.

Tips to quit smoking #6 – Try something new

Not having a cigarette in your hand for the first time in decades might make you anxious. Plan on picking up a new hobby prior to your quit smoking date. Consider one that involves using your hands such as crafts, crossword puzzles or drawing. Do whatever is necessary to stay busy and focused.

Tips to quit smoking #7 – A word of warning

Don’t replace a tobacco addiction with obesity. Be aware that you will be a little hungrier after you quit and have a reasonable plan in place. Have plenty of healthy snacks available such as raw vegetables and sugarless gum. The withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting smoking usually peak 10 to 14 days after quitting and then gradually lessen with time.

Once you decide to quit smoking don’t make an excuse as to why you need just one cigarette. If you do, you’ll fail in your attempt to quit. Remember every day you remain smoke-free is an accomplishment. Go back and review the health and financial benefits associated with being cigarette free. Remind yourself that you have the will and discipline to make this important lifestyle change and you will be successful.