A Simple 9 Step Guide to Quit Smoking Forever

Over the years I have come across numerous tips and tricks to stop smoking. I have personally not had a cigarette for over 4 years, and I owe that to the following advice. Some of these methods are a little obvious, but I put them here for the sake of having a complete comprehensive article. Here are the guidelines that I've developed over the years:

1. When you finally decide that you are ready to quit, don't think of quitting in terms of "forever". Forever is too overwhelming psychologically. Instead, start out small. Plan to quit for a week, or a month. This is a more realistic goal and will hopefully lead to many years of being nicotine-free.

2. Don't skip meals once you have begun to quit. Being physically hungry will add more symptoms and problems with the nicotine withdrawal and you don't want to complicate matters. Understand that your blood-sugar will drop once you quit, but don't allow yourself to overeat either. Gaining pounds will discourage you from dropping cigarettes. Eat frequently but don't overindulge. Spread your meals out over the course of the day.

3. Understand that when you smoked, your mind was conditioned to expect nicotine at certain moments, like after a meal or when you first wake up in the morning. Realize what these triggers are and prepare for them. Whenever you encounter a trigger you should expect a short yet powerful anxiety episode lasting up to three minutes. Embrace the anxiety and let it ride through you. Slow down and let it pass. This is part of the healing process and will eventually re-condition your mind to cope with the absence of nicotine.

4. Brush your teeth often. Keeping your mouth clean will discourage you from putting a nasty cigarette back in it. It will also encourage you to work towards that white, sparkly shine that non-smokers who brush regularly obtain. Chew minty gum to keep your mouth occupied and your breath fresh.