The annual Smokefree Health Harms Campaign was launched on December 29th 2014, to encourage smokers to give up for the new year.
Making a resolution may not be enough. It’s the steps in the right direction that make the difference to your success
Everyone who wants to stop smoking is different. So plan what will work for you.
It’s important to work out the changes that will help you to break the habit. A plan will help you through each smoke-free day.
If you’ve tried to give up smoking before, and then started again, you’re in a good place to know what works, or doesn’t work, for you.
Don’t focus on the goal
Think about the steps it takes to get there
If you want to run 10K, the first step is to get your trainers on and get out of the door. It’s the same first step that will help you give up smoking.
If you want to give up smoking, the first step is to throw away the packet, and then take each day as it comes.
Not a smoker? Share this information with someone you love.
Three points to help you plan your steps in the right direction
- Stay busy: keep your hands busy, be active and do things that will keep your mind off the ‘problem’
- Avoid smoking triggers: try to change your routine to avoid ‘smoking times’; spend time with non-smokers, get plenty of sleep.
- Stay positive: congratulate yourself for each hour, each day and each week that you’re smoke free.
Even something simple, like picking up a glass of water to sip at a time when you may have reached for a cigarette can be helpful.
Prepare to give up smoking by making a list of your reasons for wanting to stop.