If you're tired of smoking, your heart doctor can help. In this article, you'll learn 7 common strategies doctors recommend to help people quit smoking. Try them out and see if they work for you.
Everyone knows that smoking is bad for you. You've probably heard it again and again from your heart doctor,
but your heart doctor knows what he or she is talking about. Not only are they right, they can also give you some good, solid tips to help you beat your nicotine addiction. Here are some ideas that might help.
Know Your Motivation
Write down the reasons why you want to quit. For example, you might want to feel better, save money, live longer, etc. Keep this motivation sheet somewhere where you can see it every day. When things get tough, refer back to it.
When and Where You'll Smoke
Start each day by deciding how many cigarettes you'll have, when you'll have them, and where. It helps many people to designate only certain places where they can smoke. Smoking only at set times during the day puts you in control of your habit, and this helps you work towards quitting.
Set Goals and Reward Yourself
Quitting starts with a good plan. Decide how you're going to do it and set little goals for yourself. Decide on some kind of reward for each of these goals that you achieve. This will help to keep you motivated.
Get a Support Network
Just like drinkers who try to quit, you need a support network. Pick a few people who are close to you to help you quit. Explain to them your plan and have them check up on you from time to time. When you're craving and you're afraid you might slip, call them.
Believe It
Beliefs are extremely powerful in shaping our behavior. If you believe that you can do it, that's half the battle. Think of all the people who have done it before and banish that negative voice that says you can't do it from your mind.
Observe Your Habits
Notice when and why you smoke. Most smokers have a cig during set times of the day or with certain activities. Ask yourself, "Do I really want a smoke right now or is it just habit?" You'll find that the times when you actually crave a smoke are much fewer than you thought.
Don't Cheat
When you try to give up sweets and eat healthier, everybody says you should cheat once in a while. Not so with smoking. Don't let your mind convince you that it's okay to have just one. That's all it will take to get you smoking again.
When you're trying to quit, it's really important to remember that you don't have to do it alone. Create a support network, and when you're really having trouble, talk to your heart doctor. They can help you stay on track and offer some ideas and tips that can help you quit.
