5 Mistakes Smokers Make when Trying to Quit

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It’s that time again. The time when everyone starts setting goals for themselves for the New Year. In 2010, millions of people throughout the world will set a resolution to quit smoking. Unfortunately, 85% or more of these people will fail to reach their goal.

If you want 2010 to be the year that you finally quit smoking, the good news is you can do it. You just have to start by making sure you avoid these common mistakes.

• Mistake #1: Not quitting for yourself—The first question you need to ask yourself is: Do I really want to quit. Too many people try to quit for the wrong reasons. For example, they quit because the person they’re in a relationship wants them to quit. This might work for a little while, but if the relationship ends or the partner stops putting pressure on them to quit, they’ll end up right back int heir old smoking habits. You have to quit for yourself.

• Mistake #2: Not writing your goal down on paper—A lot of people say they’re going to quit smoking, but they never truly mean it. Just saying you’re going to do something is fleeting. Actually writing down your goal and posting it on the fridge or somewhere else where you’ll see it every day forces you to actually work to meet your goal. It holds you accountable. Write down your goals, and track your progress every single day.

• Mistake #3: Giving up after a setback—What happens if you end up caving into temptation and smoking a cigarette while you’re trying to quit? Most people end up giving up after one small setback, assuming they just can’t beat the habit. Don’t give up so easily. If you do give into temptation, pick yourself up and start again. Getting tripped up by obstacles is a part of the quitting process. If you’re able to move past it, you’ll be stronger for it.

• Mistake #4: Not getting support from family and friends—Smoking is a tough habit to kick. Few are successful. That’s why you need all the help you can get to get past this dangerous addiction. Don’t be shy. Let your friends and family know about your goals, and ask them for their support. You’ll likely find that they’re glad to help. They’ll be there to help you get past tempting situations or to pick yourself up should you fall. If you don’t have any friends or family who can help, join a support group. There are even online support groups for quitting smoking.

• Mistake #5: Placing yourself in tempting situations—At some point, you’re going to have to face a situation where you’re tempted to smoke, but you should do your best to avoid these situations whenever possible. This is especially true for when you’re first beginning your quest to stop smoking. For example, if going to the bar with your friends makes you want to smoke, perhaps you should avoid doing so. Suggest going somewhere else, or just skip on hanging out there until you’ve truly gotten past your habit. The better you are at avoiding these obstacles, the less likely it is that you’ll get tripped up. However, you will face temptation at some point, so be ready to work past it.

Have you tried to quit smoking in the past? What worked for you? What didn’t? Share your thoughts in the replies.

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