Plan and Prepare to Quit

Plan and Prepare to Quit

 

If you have tried to stop smoking before, you may have been surprised to find it was more difficult than you thought. You are not alone. In fact, over 70% of smokers have tried at least twice! Those who have succeeded are people who are determined to 'have another go'.

 

First ask yourself if you really want to stop. Then look at what is holding you back - are these real problems or just excuses? The key to successful quitting is to plan and prepare to stop.

 

Name a Quit Day

It may be a few days or weeks away but a day when you think you will be ready.

 

List your reasons

Make a list of your reasons for stopping e.g. health, cost, pressure from family or friends etc.

 

Keep a note

Make a note of which cigarettes you really couldn't do without. These will be the difficult ones to give up.

 

Develop ways of coping

Work out how you will cope in different smoking situations. Change your routine - get up and do things in a different order.

 

The night before the quit day

Have your last cigarette, and then get rid of everything to do with smoking - your ciggies, ashtray, lighters and matches.

 

The quit day

You are ready. You have made all your plans for coping, so put them into action.

 

Take small steps and keep going

Take each day at a time. Encourage others to help you.

 

If you start smoking again, don't panic. It's not the end of the world. Forget about feeling guilty - you were in a tough situation. Stopping can take time. Take a break and when you are ready, try again.