Yes, you can create your individualized smoking cessation plan. You do not have to write it down, but you can if you think that would help. You can choose any method that you feel would work for you. You know yourself better than any doctor. Cold turkey is one possibility, or hypnosis, or nicotine gum and nicotine patches. There are also non-nicotine alternatives, such as biomagnetic earrings and plastic cigarettes. Choose only the smoking cessation aids you know can realistically follow.
After you have chosen your method or methods, and obtained your supplies, it is time to really get down to planning. If you can find the answers to the following questions, you can succeed. Answer the questions, and choose action steps to take when these situations arise, as they will undoubtedly do.
1. What will I do about severe cravings? Will I call a friend, go for a walk, take a shower? Choose several things you think will help, and be on the lookout for other ideas.
2. What related behaviors make me want to smoke? Should I quit those behaviors? Do them in a way that will not trigger cigarette cravings?
3. Do I need a support group? If so, will it be from family, friends, or friends-yet-to-meet.
4. How will I handle my first setback? My second one? What are some ways I can get re-motivated to try again?
5. What can I do to keep my mind off smoking?
Planning ahead for cravings, setbacks, and lack of motivation is a realistic approach, and one that gives many people success. Most people do not succeed the first time they try to stop smoking. So cut yourself some slack and be prepared to trip on the road to success.
Life is going to hand you difficulties and challenges. If you have a pre-planned list of strategies to use when those times confront you, you will have a better chance at succeeding. Stay as flexible as possible. If one plan does not work, abandon it as soon as possible and try something else on your list. Keep adding to your list. Ask others for their ideas to help you add strategies to your list.
Remember that you will reap healthful benefits and will attain the smoke-free life if you keep on trying.
Denise Meyer is the webmaster of Smoke-Free Zone, where you can browse smoking cessation products such as stop smoking gum and stop smoking patches.
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