Cutting the nicotine isn’t easy; don’t let anybody tell you it is. But a little bit of motivation and a structured quitting plan can help you if you are really dedicated to doing it. There are many plans to take out the uncertainty.
The first step is to set your own goal. Don’t let anybody tell you how or when you should quit. Come up with your own rationale and steps for making it happen. You should be able to rattle these off to yourself in a heartbeat. That will help you when you are risking a relapse. You’ll be able to recall all the good reasons you have to make the move and stick with it.
You should also surround yourself with success partners. Whether it’s your friends or family members or just simply co-workers, you should share your tactics with them and let them aid you on your way.
You should establish your own plan for quitting and that includes laying out when you should accomplish certain goals. If you think you can cut back a few cigarettes at a time until you hit zero, that is a good routine to establish. It isn’t easy, but laying out your timeline in advance will take the guesswork, and some of the stress, out of the process.
Indicate during your planning process when and where you will be able to smoke. Set aside certain times during the day and then challenge yourself to surpass your own expectations. For example, cut out the routine cigarette during coffee time. Then see if you can go from there, skipping a cigarette even after that time. See how long you can go. Make a game of it.
Since you’re ditching a bad habit, seek out a good one to replace it. Instead of smoking first thing in the morning, go for a quick jog. This will have the added benefit of boosting your endorphins, which are some of the same chemicals targeted by the nicotine in the cigarettes.
Let your friends who smoke know that you are on the path to quitting. And then steer clear of them. Unless they are quitting too, they may be a source of temptation. You don’t have to lose friends over this ordeal, but you may want to avoid certain people or locations until you know you are reformed for good.
Remember, the benefits of quitting are well worth it. You can do this. And with a little bit of planning and smart behavior modification, you will do it.
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