Some start smoking at an early age just to look "cool" in front of friends. Some begin because of peer pressure. But slowly, that small adventure turns into an addiction without us even realising it. And even after knowing what harm it causes, many struggle to quit. We all know people around us who face this.
It is very easy to say, "I'll quit smoking"; it is tough to do so. It is an uphill task-both physical and mental. Actually, no addiction can ever be quite easily. However, if you really wish to quit smoking, then you may follow three simple tips.
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There can be many reasons behind smoking - stress, a certain situation, or emotional triggers. First, try to understand why you smoke and when that urge strikes.
How to quit smoking
Many people decide to quit all of a sudden. But that rarely works. Sudden decisions don’t usually last long. In a weak moment, you may end up lighting a cigarette again. Quitting abruptly can also cause nicotine withdrawal, leading to anxiety and increased cravings, making self-control even harder.
Instead, gradually reduce your smoking. If you smoke 10 cigarettes a day, cut it down to 8 in the first week. In the next week, bring it down to 5. In the following week, reduce it to 2. At the start of the fourth week, try having just one cigarette during the first three days and then stop completely.
Also, avoid being in places where people are smoking; the smell or possibly just viewing another person smoking might make you want to smoke, too. Use nicotine gum if necessary.
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Once you get used to staying off cigarettes, you won’t hesitate to be around friends who smoke. But their smell and the sight of them smoking may still tempt you; this is the real test. If you can hold yourself back at that moment, you’ve won. You'll free yourself from this habit for good. If not, you'll need to work more on self-control.
