How to Quit Smoking

Smoking is highly addictive and as such it might be very difficult to stop once you have started. However, if your will is strong enough and you are determined to quit smoking, there are numerous ways in which you can achieve it. This article will try to help you and it will give you some useful information on how to quit smoking.

First of all, let me tell you that you won't quit immediately - it will take time so just be patient and don't give up! Start by getting a piece of paper and drawing a line down the center. Then on the one part of the paper write down everything you like about smoking, while on the other write what you don't like about it. You don't have to do it all in once, instead take your time and amend the list if necessary. Once the negative points outweigh the positive ones it's time to quit.

Next thing to do is to set up a quit date and in the presence of a family member or a friend sign a 'stop smoking contract' (have the witness sign the contract too). Then, write down the reasons why you want to quit smoking on an index card and carry it with you. Reasons may vary, but the standard ones include quiting because of your kids/grandkids spouse, or due to health problems.

After that, start lowering the amount of cigarettes you buy. Instead of getting a whole carton, get just a pack and carry only two-three cigarettes at a time with you. In this way you won't have any cigarettes immediately when you want one and you will learn to get by with fewer cigarettes a day.

When the quit date arrives throw away everything that has to do with cigarettes and smoking. This includes any ashtrays, leftover cigarettes, lighters, matches, cigarette holders, etc. Also, tell your friends, coworkers and family members that you are quitting smoking and ask for their support. In the beginning, your emotions will be sky-high so don't hold them back - instead let people know how you feel.

Now starts the tricky part. In the first days and weeks you will be craving for cigarettes a lot, and I really mean A LOT. So, you should find something to do that will substitute this urge. For example, drink a glass of water, cup of coffee or tea, talk with your partner or coworkers, go for a walk, or do something at home, like cleaning for example. Move out cleaning experts in Melbourne believe that if you keep yourself occupied with cleaning you won't be thinking about cigarettes so much. Additionally, you can find a hobby that will also take your mind off smoking. You can also carry with you some 'mouth toys', such as lollipops, chewing gums, carrot stick, etc. and eat one every time you feel the urge to smoke.

Finally, collect the money you would usually spend for cigarettes in a glass jar. In this way you will see how much you would have actually waisted on cigarettes, but now you can reward yourself and do something that you always wanted to, but never had the money for. And don't worry if you relapse - you haven't failed, simply start again and don't give up!