Helpful Tips to Give Up Smoking

Let’s face it – it’s tough to quit smoking. Sure, we know it’s the healthy thing to do, but it’s an addiction that most of us find almost impossible to break. However, it is possible to successfully overcome this destructive habit, and once you do, you’ll feel great! Here are some practical and helpful tips to give up smoking.

Make a list of what you like about smoking.

You already know why you should quit smoking, and you probably dislike smoking for certain reasons. Write these down on one side of a piece of paper, but then on the other side, take some time and write the reasons you like to smoke. If you know the reasons behind your smoking, you can find other activities that may meet the same needs for you.

Make a list of why you want to quit smoking.

Of all the tips to give up smoking, this one is one of the most important ones. It’s important that you get in touch with why YOU want to quit smoking -- not why your spouse wants you to quit, or even why you think you should quit, but the reasons deep inside that you personally want to kick the habit. Write this on an index card or in your day planner, and refer to it often.

Choose a “quit” date

Decide when you will start your nonsmoking program; set a firm date and put it in writing. This is a contract with yourself; take it seriously.

Replace cigarettes with something delicious

Instead of reaching for that cigarette, substitute something healthy but tasty – perhaps a new flavor of herbal tea, or some raw nuts. You’re replacing one physical sensation with another, so this is one of the smartest tips to give up smoking.

Discover cinnamon-flavored toothpicks

Here’s a simple yet effective tip to give up smoking. When you are tempted to reach for a cigarette, put a cinnamon-flavored toothpick in your mouth instead. You’ll combat your craving, and have nicer breath to boot.

Get physical

One of the most important tips to give up smoking is engaging in physical activity. Instead of lamenting the loss of smoking in front of your favorite TV show, get up and out – start jogging, or at least walking. Maybe you could sign up for an exercise class at your local YMCA. This is one of the best tips to give up smoking because it’s replacing a harmful habit with a very healthy one. It will also prevent the weight gain that ex-smokers often experience.

Save your money

One great tip is to save all the money you normally would spend on cigarettes; you’ll be amazed at how quickly it accumulates and how much you save. Then plan on treating yourself to something nice – you deserve it!

Ask your loved ones for help

Your family and friends can help you a lot by being supportive. If you ask for their help, they’ll be happy to do whatever they can to make the process easier. Warn them that you’ll likely be irritable during the first few days and weeks – they’ll be extra conscious of this and might even think of some things to take your mind off your struggle.

Think of your own tips to give up smoking – you’ll need all the help you can get. Be creative and reward yourself for making such a positive decision.