Stop Smoking Plan

Most smokers today at one time or other have had that deep desire to kick the habit. Admittedly there is no easy way to do so because of the nature of this addiction. What however might be found helpful is to have a stop smoking plan.

Here are some suggested steps :
1. Make determined commitment to quit.
Write down your personal reasons for wanting to quit and be honest with yourself. Keep referring to this list often as you go along in order to stay reminded  and focused always.

2. Choose a quit day.
This is the day you will stop smoking. Before this day, remove everything to do with the habit from your house, car and office.

3. Get social support.
Tell family, friends and colleagues at work about your plan and get their support and understanding. Even your doctor needs to know in case you need to refer to him to deal with any withdrawal symptoms or weight gain.

4. Develop alternative behaviour in place of smoking
For example if you used to smoke to relax , now try exercise or a massage or yoga. You will be surprised how many things you can do that are even more pleasurable than puffing your health away. Personalise your stop smoking plan  so that it works for you.

5. Be conversant with the use of stop smoking aids in case you may need them. Some people have even been known to buy e cigarettes online rather than use regular tobacco cigarettes. The doctor will give you good advise.

6. Stay away from functions and events and places where smoking is an activity, at least until you are strong enough to resist the temptation and stop feeling like you are missing out on something.

7. Be mentally prepared and know you will find obstacles and challenges to your plan. Stay resolved even if you unfortunately have a ‘ slip ‘. Many smokers have succeeded in stopping and are today happy ex- smokers.

8. Persevere.
A positive  and confident outlook will go a long way in building your self-esteem especially with each passing day that is smoke-free.

Having a stop smoking plan is definitely an important method of finding guidelines with which to work towards your goal. And it will work for you as it has done for many other quitters. Put your mind to it.