I hear a lot of people talking about giving up smoking, especially this time of year. For anyone thinking about it here’s just a few points to consider.
– Remember, the same thing doesn’t work for everyone. Just because something worked for a friend the same thing won’t necessarily work for you.
– The starting point must be that you are doing it for yourself and because you want to. A nagging partner is never a positive reason to quit.
– Don’t focus on what you are giving up. This only keeps the thought of cigarettes in your mind and creates a sense of losing something or of an ongoing struggle. Focus on what you are gaining and the positive outcome; being smoke free, better health etc.
– There are unknown benefits to smoking that people don’t consider; 7-10 minute break from work every time you smoke. A support/social network, there’s invariably someone to go with you or to chat with when you’re outside. The self help for stress. Whatever hidden benefit smoking brings you be prepared for that change too.
– What the mind believes the mind achieves. If you can’t imagine yourself being smoke free don’t try today. It’ll only create a sense of "giving up" being even more difficult. Wait until you can imagine yourself being a non-smoker and believe you can do it, that’s when you are ready.
Best of luck to everyone quitting the weed, slimming or whatever change you are making.
