Health Tips

Ask almost any one who used to smoke and they will most likely give you some of their own quit smoking tips, like how to set a quit day.  Don’t dread the arrival of the day that you pick, but rather think of it as a day you will start on your journey to a happier and healthier life.

Your quit day is no ordinary day, therefore be certain that you put a lot of thought into it.  For example, if you have an important day coming up, such as a holiday, anniversary, birthday, etc., you might like to choose it for your quit day.  Put your day in writing.  Having it on the calendar in black and white is a strong visual aid.

Decide if a weekday, or perhaps the weekend is better.  Try to pick a day when you will be busy, but not busy with stressful things.  Busy, because you will have something to take your mind off of smoking, and obviously the less stress you have to deal with, the easier it can be for your to deal with all of the withdrawal symptoms you will face.  A vacation is a great time to pick to quit smoking. Being  away from your normally stressful environment can help strengthen your resolve.

Another thing you might consider is if you will have supportive people around you.   Enlist the aid of your friends – let your friends and family know of your intentions.  Even if this is the hundredth time you’ve told them you’re quitting smoking, it doesn’t matter.  They will be happy to know that you are trying, and will do whatever they can to help you.  When they ask you “what can I do to help you”, don’t be shy about it.  Think about it ahead of time, and let them know exactly what they can do.  For example, if they are smokers themselves, you can ask them if they would please not smoke in front of you, at least until you’ve beaten the cravings and been smoke free for a while.

Before quitting, do a “clean sweep” of your home and car.  Get rid of all of your ashtrays, lighter, etc and get rid of them.  Destroy any cigarettes you might have by soaking them in water.  Just putting them in the trash can will not help, because they might call your name in the middle of the night, while the idea of getting dressed to go out to buy a pack can help to change your mind.  Remember to get rid of your stashes, as well.

Besides just picking a quit day, plan to reward yourself on that day with something fun, such as a new outfit, or shopping trip, or perhaps dinner out with a friend.  It is your choice whether you will enjoy someone else’s company, or your own, however whatever you decide to do, always keep your list of quitting resolutions and reasons on hand to help you remember why you are putting yourself through the process of becoming a non smoker.

Like anything else in your life, picking a quit day is a decision that you can make which will affect the rest of your days on planet earth.  Pick your day, choose your method, and set upon your journey towards a better health, and a better life.