How to Make Your First Days of Stopping Smoking Less Tough

It’s high time you stopped smoking and started taking better care of your health. Not only will you prevent various diseases, you’ll also save plenty of money. Quitting smoking pays off in more than one way!

1. Make a list of pluses

Think of the positives. Make a list of the advantages of quitting smoking. Some rewards are instant! The day you stop smoking you will realize that you can spend the money on something better than nicotine. You will also save time since you will no longer need constant breaks to have a smoke. All of your senses will be more sensitive. For example, food and drinks will taste different.

2. Brush your teeth often

You smell better and you feel that your mouth tastes fresher. There is no bad breath smell that is so typical of smokers. Brush your teeth more often – it will help you stay away from cigarettes.

3. Avoid alcohol

Oftentimes we can see that after downing a glass of wine or something stronger one feels like having a cigarette or two. Drinkers are usually smokers too. Do not drink alcohol and you will be less likely to want to smoke. 

4. Never forget why you decided to stop smoking

Remember the reasons that motivated you to stop smoking. Make a list of your goals and post its copies at work and home. Have a copy in the bathroom and even in the kitchen. Some claim that posting a picture of those you love and care for next to the list helps even better.

5. Stay more active 

Each of your days should be full of various activities. They are necessary to keep your mind busy with something more important than your obsession with cigarettes and smoking. It might be anything – from reading and gardening to sports and games. Do something new every day in order to avoid routine. Your hobbies should be exciting and involving.

6. Do not let your mouth be empty

Put something else in your mouth and you will be less likely to reach for a cigarette. Replace a cigarette with a mint, sugar-free hard candy or chewing gum. Opt for healthy snacks if quitting smoking causes discomfort. Fruits and vegetables will help you restore your body cells after years of smoking plus won’t affect your weight.

7. Limit caffeine

Too much caffeine can make you feel stressed and jumpy. This is when your quitting smoking feels unbearable. You need to break your habit to drink too much coffee and other caffeinated beverages. Have a cup of herbal tea instead. Calm down, relax and let your mind enjoy the peace and quiet.

8. Avoid troublemakers

Your friends, family and colleagues are not always as supportive as you would like them to be. Some people are difficult to deal with. Your mission is to avoid conflicts, arguments and unpleasant conversations. Try to resolve issues step by step. Troublemakers can make your first few days of stopping smoking much harder. Do not give up on your healthy lifestyle. Keep going!