Understanding where you think smoking satisfies you....

[EmJay]

Quite often, when somebody decides that they would like to give up smoking, they jump straight in at the deep end without giving much thought, if any - to what part of smoking they feel they will actually miss when quitting. It is quite useful to try and understand what it is that you think you enjoy about smoking, both physically and mentally. Here is a simple thought provoking exercise to try before you're quit date;

1. Don't worry about stopping smoking but become really aware of each cigarette or roll up that you smoke and the whole process of smoking each individual one. What do you believe you really enjoy about it?

2. Next, again without trying to stop, try and go for as long as you can without smoking. However when you feel that the craving is too much, really think about what it is that you are feeling... Does it feel physical? Is it in your tummy? In your chest? Does your mouth water? Does it feel more in your mind? Like you can't concentrate? Feeling a bit tense? Upset?

3. When you feel that you can't take anymore of this awful feeling, go and get your cigarettes.

4. Notice at which point does any part of this action take that awful feeling away. You may feel better once you pick up your cigarette packet... without even having to light your cigarette. The feeling may go when you take the first puff in, maybe when you blow it out. The feeling may not even go until you have finished smoking and put your cigarette out.

Only you are able to recognise and answer any of the above for yourself then you can work on the next step of moving towards your quit date.

[nessmac]

i gave up smoking 2 months and 1 day ago and not a day goes by when i dont think about having a fag but it is only a second and i have realized that all the excuse i used when i smoked were exactly that excuses.

I care 24 /7 for my husband whom also smokes so appart from shopping and a walk with the dogs i am in the house 24/7 .

i have tried over the last 19 years to stop and this is the first time i have finally suceed i feel great yes it s early day but since the 4 week i have been on my own no nicoret patchs yes i did put on a stone in weight but i would rather have a few extra pounds on than a harmful habit

[EmJay Partner]

Hi nessmac, that's really positive news. Well done! If at any point you find yourself thinking about smoking, just remember to turn your excuses for going back to smoking into your reasons for staying quit.

Did you get the patches from your local stop smoking servcie, your Dr or did you buy them yourself?

It would be great if you could share any hints / tips or ideas with us on how you manage to stay motivated to stop especially when you live with a smoker. This can be a very challenging time for those who have recently quit.

You are doing great, keep it up!