A Guide To Quitting Smoking
By now, you’re likely well aware of the impact that smoking has on your overall health and well-being.
For example, not only can it make you more vulnerable to heart disease and high blood pressure (among other serious health conditions), but it also takes its toll on your appearance and has a notable impact on your energy levels. This alone is enough of a reason to quit, not to mention the example that continuing to smoke will set for your children.
However, that still does not mean that leaving this habit behind is easy. Fortunately, there are certain steps that you can take to make this a little easier. Read on to find out more.
Consider using vapes instead. Many of those who have quit smoking for good used vaping products to make the transition a little easier. This is because it can help to satisfy some of the cravings associated with smoking, and you can gradually decrease the amount of nicotine contained within the vape juice itself. This leaves you feeling a lot more in control of your smoke-free journey, especially as the shift feels less abrupt and therefore, much easier to adjust to.
Think of the benefits. One of the easiest ways to “keep your eyes on the prize” when quitting smoking is to be mindful of the benefits associated with kicking this habit. For example, within just a few days or weeks, you’ll notice that you’re more alert, and that your sense of taste and smell are heightened. Given that the costs of cigarettes are always rising, it's also a great way to save money.
Use the money to save up for a dream purchase. Putting aside the money that you’d usually spend on cigarettes to save up for a dream purchase, such as a sun-filled vacation or a new car, is a great way to ensure that you stay on track. This is because it gives you something tangible to work toward.
Talk to your healthcare provider. If you’ve been smoking for some time or have tried to quit previously but found yourself back at square one, you may benefit from reaching out to your doctor for further advice and guidance. For example, they may be able to signpost you toward local support services that are designed to make your journey a little easier.
Remove potential triggers from your home (and bag). Having a lighter and a packet of cigarettes lying around your home or at the bottom of your bag may not seem like a big deal, especially if you have simply ‘forgotten’ to throw them away. However, the truth is, having them around makes you far more likely to use them. As such, you should make sure that you throw or give them away the moment you decide to quit. This way, you will not risk accidentally triggering yourself.
Be patient. Smoking is not an easy habit to kick. This means that you should be patient with yourself throughout every step of the process, knowing that it will all be worth it in the long-run.
