Quitting Smoking - Top Ten Tips

Experience has shown that those that are most successful in quitting smoking, have a 'game plan'. Why not benefit from their experience - their top ten tips follow:

Tip Number 1 - Name the Day

Name the day you are going to stop. Take time to plan don’t just do it on sudden impulse.

Tip Number 2 - Enlist Helpers

Tell friends and family that you are serious and that you need them to help you stop.

Tip Number 3 - List Your Reasons

Write down a list of the reasons why you want to stop, keep it handy so that you can remind yourself why

Tip Number 4 - Keep a Diary

Keep a smoking diary for a few days before you stop recording when and where you smoke and how you feel each time

Tip Number 5 - Spot the Danger Times

Use your diary to spot the smoky situations during your day and work out a way to cope for each one. Get tips from other ex-smokers

Tip Number 6 - Treat Yourself

Plan some treats to buy with all the money you save. Remember, 20 a day:

• is £143 in one month.
• is £1717 in one year.
• is £8,586 in five years.

Tip Number 7 - Prepare in Advance

The night before you stop stub out your last cigarette then throw out all your ashtrays, lighters, matches and other smoke related bits and pieces. Have a relaxing bath and wash out the smoky smells once and for all!

Tip Number 8 - Avoid Temptation

Stay away from smoky bars and restaurants for the first few days – avoid temptation

Tip Number 9 - Don't Kid Yourself

Don’t be tempted to try ‘just one’ after you stop, you are now a non smoker and don’t need one!

Tip Number 10.- Recognise Your Achievements

Congratulate yourself every day you stay smokefree – a fantastic achievement!