It's no secret that those wanting to quit smoking struggle to do so due to the addictive nature of their habit. The mere thought of letting go their cigarettes gives them the “goose bumps.” Obviously the earlier the better, to help in the prevention of chronic and deadly diseases like heart failure and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases).

Knowing the harmful effects of smoking may be an eye opener to those addicted, but the only problem is, what are the steps one needs to undergo to effectively quit smoking?

Smoking Cessation

Smoking cessation is a big leap for addicted smokers. Will I make it? How do I start? How do other quitters successfully fight the battle? What are the withdrawal symptoms? These are just some of the many questions that linger in a smokers mind before they starts on their journey to quit. Ultimately, the the success of your plans to quit smoking depends on your motivation and willpower.

Easy Steps to Quit Smoking

Here are some steps that will become significant to those who want to quit smoking:

• Become educated about the dangers of smoking. Being educated gives you more power and drive to quit smoking.
• Learn about the withdrawal symptoms of smoking. Knowing the symptoms will give you foresight on what to expect and how you can minimise its effect. Withdrawal symptoms usually start from a few days and then cease within a few weeks.
• Rid your house of all cigarettes, ashtrays and lighters BAR one. Treat this last packet and lighter as your enemy and you the winner. Be strong and tell yourself NO.
• Keep some healthy and delicious snacks within easy reach. These are your friends and count on them next time you experience a craving to light up.
• Get support from your family and friends, especially when you are going through your withdrawal symptoms.
• Join support groups that can assist you in successfully carrying out your plan. They may give you inspiring stories on how they have overcome the addictive effects of smoking or provide new tactics you haven't yet tried.
• Learn from your previous attempts to quit smoking and analyse why you failed. Put measures in place to overcome past obstacles that prevented you from achieving your goal.
• Find new ways to release your stress. Rather than lighting up a fag, try reading a magazine, taking a walk, having a hot bath or some other enjoyable activity that takes your mind of things.
• Most important of all, keep trying. Fight to the end! Practice makes perfect. And don’t be discouraged if you make minor relapses.

Weight Gain

Many do experience weight gain whilst undertaking their quit smoking program. The minor health issues with weight gain though is far less than those associated with smoking. To minimise weight gain, keep some healthy and delicious snacks nearby. My dad used to always have plain old scotch finger biscuits to compliment his coffee rather than smoking. If you're used to smoking and drinking coffe, then try changing to tea. Again, that's what my father also did.

In Summary

Smoking cessation has many obstacles before reaching the top, and that’s why physical and psychological preparations are very important to achieve your goal.

I hope these steps will help and encourage you to quit smoking. Here's to a smoke-free and healthy life.