Quitting smoking is the #1 thing you can do to improve your health and enhance the quality of your life. It can also be one of the most difficult habits to break as nicotine is just as addictive as heroine. In order to quit it is very important to take specific action steps that will help you to achieve one of the best things you will ever do for yourself. One of the steps shown in the infographic above is to Make a Quit Plan. Use the resources in step 3 to teach you what should be included in that plan. Here are some other specific action steps you can take to kick-start this resolution to kick the habit.
Step 1: Write down all of the benefits you will get from being a non-smoker. Your breathe and clothes will no longer have that acrid smell, you will save money, your health will improve, you may live longer.
Step 2: Remove all tobacco products from your home. That’s right, they were expensive but your health is priceless. Don’t carry them with you. If you have an open pack remember you are in charge of each decision: to open the pack, to put it in your mouth, to strike a match or lighter and to light it. Change just one of those choices for a fresh start.
Step 3: And probably the most important is to Get Support. Most health plans offer smoking cessation programs and classes as one of your benefits. If you don’t have a plan there are other free resources. You can speak with someone today at the SAMHSA National Helpline. Confidential free help, from public health agencies, to find substance use treatment and information. Learn more or call 1-800-662-4357.
There are also excellent resources online including the CDC How to Quit Smoking for Free or WebMD’s Reasons to Quit and the National Health Institute’s Stop Smoking for Your Mental Health .
Step 4: Enjoy a new life of free breathing, enhanced flavor, more social interactions and better overall health and well-being.
You can do it! I did, many years ago as have many of my friends, colleagues and clients. It’s #1 on our list for this year because it’s the best thing you can do for yourself and those around you.
gdba 