9 simple facts to help you quit smoking

Pulse had brought you a report earlier about a new study found by scientists in a new way to quit smoking. As optimistic as it may sound, there are still others who prefer the old fashioned method.

For those who are looking to live a healthier lifestyle, here are nine

● Decide on a date you want to quit and stick to it. Don’t procrastinate; make it sooner rather than later.

● Make a checklist of all the reasons why you want to quit smoking. If at any point in your process you feel tempted to smoke, go back to this list.

● Prepare yourself for environments where you may be tempted to smoke, for example, parties or nights out drinking. Try not to attend such occasions in the early stages of your quitting schedule.

● Get rid of all cigarettes, ashtrays and lighters or any other triggers that may tempt you back into smoking.

● If you have a family member(s) or partner that smokes, encourage them to stop too, or smoke away from you, so that you don’t get tempted to smoke too.

● Make sure that aside from quitting smoking, you are also imbibing some healthy habits, such as not skipping meals.

● Get a quit buddy, such as a friend who smokes as well and vow to quit together. You can share your feelings and motivate each other and be accountable to each other.

● Get a reward system going. For every milestone that you get through without relapsing, treat yourself to something cool like a nice meal out, or a massage. You deserve it!

● Finally, know that if you do relapse, it’s not the end of the world. It can take multiple tries to eventually quit for good. Instead, reflect on what made you to light up again, and try to avoid that situation on your next try.

If you think the issue is more than you can handle please seek medical and psychological help. It’s nothing to be ashamed of. If you also know of any other tips for quitting, please share them below.