Living smoke-free
Quitting smoking is certainly something to celebrate. Right from the start you may begin to notice some of the improvements quitting brings to your life. Because once you quit:
- Your food may taste better.
- You may have more energy.
- Your breath, clothes, and hair won't smell like smoke.
- You may feel more in control, now that you're not dependent on cigarettes.
- And you may save money from not buying cigarettes.
Tips for staying quit
Although quitting is rewarding, staying quit takes work. Here are some tips to help you continue to live smoke-free:
- Keep practicing your non-smoking routine. Avoid the places and triggers that make you want to smoke.
- Stick with your quit plan. It will help you get through the urge to smoke.
- Manage your triggers. Go for walks to avoid places that make you want to smoke. Drink water or chew sugar-free gum instead of smoking a cigarette.
My "Staying Quit" List
Stay on track after you have quit.
- Understand your urge to smoke
- If you have a slip-up, don't be discouraged quit again right away. And try this to help you understand your behavior: write down the date, the number of cigarettes you smoked, your reason for smoking, and what you'll do next time.
- Manage your triggers and "stay quit"
- Continue to avoid the routine of smoking with the following suggestions:
- Go for walks to avoid places that make you want to smoke
- Drink plenty of water
- Exercise (check with your doctor before starting a new activity)
- Take up a new hobby
- Chew sugar-free gum instead of smoking
Uh-oh, you slipped: now what?
A slip-up doesn't mean you have to keep smoking. Here are a few quit-smoking tips to help keep you on track:
- Manage your triggers using your My "Staying Quit" List. For instance: if you had a cigarette because of stress at work, next time try walking around the office instead.
- Don't be discouraged. A slip up doesn't mean you have to go back to smoking. Don't give up. You could also ask your doctor about treatment options that can help you stop smoking.
- Stop blaming yourself. Smoking is a treatable medical condition. Instead of feeling bad about the past, congratulate yourself. You're learning how to live smoke-free.
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