Tips on Quitting Smoking

Quitting smoking can drastically improve your health as well as save you a significant amount of money. However, despite these compelling reasons to do so, giving up smoking is far from easy. It is possible, though.

Here are some tips:

Write down the reasons you want to stop smoking

Writing down reasons you want to give up cigarettes will focus your mind and also give you something to remind you of your goals when you have a weak moment.

Make a plan for quitting

Although some people to stop smoking in stages or cut down gradually, it could end up being a drawn-out process that never ends if you don't set an end date. Set a date when you will finally quit cigarettes, work towards it and stick to it.

Make it public

Tell your friends, family and colleagues that you are stopping smoking. They will support you and avoid putting temptation in your way. Additionally, you will be spurred on to beat your addiction to nicotine because you don't want to let people down.

It may help you to 'buddy up' with someone else who is trying to stop smoking - you can spur each other on or perhaps even introduce a competitive element for fun!

Remove smoking paraphernalia

Don't have packets of cigarettes, lighters and ashtrays around. They will tempt you and remind you of your craving.

Understand your behaviour

Do you normally smoke when drinking alcohol? Or after a meal? Know your habits and break them or avoid situations where you know you will be tempted to smoke.

Think of the money!

You can save a significant amount of money by giving up smoking. If you smoked 20 cigarettes a day, quitting could save you a massive £190+ per month! You could also save money on things such as private health insurance. It is well known that many health insurance providers offer lower premiums for those who don't smoke as they are seen as less of a risk.

You don't have to go it alone

Stopping smoking is about willpower but there is plenty of help available to keep your resolve strong. Visit a stop smoking clinic for free NHS advice - ask your doctor about referring you if you're having difficulty giving up.

There are also various nicotine patches and gums available to ease the initial withdrawal symptoms. Research the complementary therapies, audio products and books that are on the market to help you quit.

Embrace the health benefits

You will begin to see the health benefits soon after you stop smoking - you're likely to sleep better, you'll breathe easier and your skin will be clearer. Most importantly you'll be reducing the risk of serious illness such as heart disease and cancer.