How to Quit Smoking Effectively?

Smoking is just like any other addiction, easy to get into but definitely hard to quit. However, with perseverance and determination, you can actually fulfill your 2020 resolution to stop it for good finally.

You already know how much harm smoking causes to your body. The amount of tar that gets accumulated in your lungs due to smoking is quite alarming.

With so much media attention and health advisory warnings doing the rounds, you must also be aware that regular smoking poses an increased risk of cancer. This is mainly due to the carcinogenic polycyclic compound called Benzo(a)pyrene present in it.

However, as I already said, like any addiction, quitting cigarettes takes time, but with the following guidelines, accomplishing it will become much easier for you!

• The key is to make a plan and stick to it.

• Start by gradually decreasing the number of cigarettes you smoked per week.

• Estimate how much you spend on cigarette packs per month and how much you can save up if you quit smoking. By doing this, you will get motivated towards your goal. You can also make a wishlist item that can be bought with the money that you get to save each month.

• Find a support group or a loved one to provide you with support and encouragement throughout the journey.

• Keep yourself busy.

• Stay positive. On the tough days, remember your reasons for quitting in the first place.

• Try to avoid your smoking triggers.

• Keep yourself hydrated throughout the day.

• Practice meditation and deep breathing regularly.

• Start regular exercise or any form of active sports like swimming.

• Start a habit of positive reinforcement towards any new skill whenever you feel an urge to smoke.

• Don’t ever fool yourself into believing “only one cigarette”. Remember, one puff is enough to put down all your previous efforts to quit smoking.

• Try to lower down your caffeine intake.

• Set yourself a target date to achieve your goal.

• Reward yourself every day with small incentives like gums, candies, or toffees for not picking up a cigarette.

• Put up a list of harmful effects of smoking and the benefits of quitting it, on a wall or surface that is visible to you daily.

• You might look for safer options for nicotine-replacement.
• Get rid of all hidden stash of cigarettes to avoid stumbling upon it in the future.

• Stay motivated and positive because if you set your mind to it, then you can surely do it.

Final Thoughts

“It Does Not Matter How Slowly You Go As Long As You Do Not Stop” 

• Confucius.

Giving up on addiction is not easy, and yes, it will be challenging at times. You might also end up getting withdrawal symptoms as well.

But through all this, you need to remember that smoking ultimately injures you and is more harmful than you want to believe. In the end, all your efforts will be worth it, and you can end up living a healthy and happy lifestyle that you have always wished for.