Creating a Personal Plan for Quitting

By: Mike Durand

Everyone experience with smoking and quitting is going to be slightly different. Because everyone has different behaviors, beliefs and bodies, it is important that you tailor your plan to quit according to what is most likely to work for you.

It is a wise idea to spend some time prior to your actual quit date planning your strategy, preparing for how you will handle obstacles, deciding on products and services to assist you in the process, and letting your friends and family know about your plan so they can provide encouragement and support. There are many helpful resources available, but it is essential that they be paired with your own clear goals and commitment to following through if you are to be successful.

Begin by carefully evaluating your situation, including any previous experience overcoming addiction, your strength of willpower, how likely you are to adhere to certain strategies, your support network, and any underlying conditions such as your stress levels. To be most effective, your stop smoking strategy should be fairly comprehensive, in addressing the reasons for your smoking, the behaviors surrounding your habit, your environment, and more.

You should also become very clear about your reasons for quitting. These are the things you will remind yourself about each time you are tempted to smoke, so they should be as specific and meaningful to you as possible. They can be posted as visual reminders in places where you might be the most inclined to smoke, such as the car or your office, and can be shared with others for added motivation. For example, if you are determined to quit and use the money you save for a special family treat, if they are looking forward to it along with you, you will likely feel a stronger reluctance to let everyone down than if the disappointment affects you alone.

Nicotine patches, hypnotism, and different therapeutic techniques are just some of the ways you can help yourself through the process of quitting. Many former smokers also suggest the use of replacements for the action of smoking during this time, including chewing gum, snacking on celery or carrot sticks, or chewing on a straw or cinnamon stick. Others recommend keeping your hands busy as well, knitting, squeezing a stress ball, or playing cards. Consider all your options and come up with a plan that suits you.

Remember, there are bound to be obstacles and setbacks along the way, however, the more prepared you are in advance, the better able you will be to cope with the challenges that arise. Get professional help if the temptation is too much for you to overcome on your own, and remember to reward yourself for the progress you make. There are lots of smoke-free ways to enjoy yourself, and now is the time to start exploring them.

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