How to Handle Relapses While Trying to Quit Smoking

Though it is wise to be prepared for all kinds of difficulties, it is equally important to have a positive attitude to keep up your spirits and strengthen your resolve to quit smoking. As the old adage goes ‘Hope for the best and be prepared for the worst.’ You should be aware of the pitfalls but don’t wait for them. Cross the bridge when you come to it. So, in a sense, talking about the possibility of relapses while trying to quit smoking is almost inviting them.

If you are thinking about quitting smoking, do not make plans for, nor allow for any 'slips', 'just ones' or any 'accidents' for that matter. The old saying goes - 'If you fail to plan, you plan to fail' but I would also like to add to that the advice of 'If you plan for slips or accidents, you are more likely to have one as opposed to if you adamantly tell yourself that there will be no allowance for moments of weakness.'

Nevertheless, it is prudent to be aware of the eventuality that slips do occur. So, when you have slipped up, chastise yourself until you feel completely guilty. You will automatically do it to yourself anyway. Here the support group becomes very important. Once you have raked yourself over the coals, contact your support group and let them know what has happened. They will help you rebuild your resolve.

Most importantly, be honest with yourself, especially if you have had more than one 'slip'. Look at the problem straight in the eye; don’t fool yourself that these occasional slips are fine and are just part of the normal quitting process because they aren't. A slip is a slip and has to be handled as one. Reprimand yourself for a moment’s weakness that leads to hours, if not days, of guilt. Let it sink in deep enough so that it crops up when you feel tempted again.

You have to be continuously vigilant for these slips otherwise you will eventually start smoking as much as you used to smoke, if not more. Whether you like to believe it or not, this happens every time.

Don’t try to sweep the slips under the carpet. Look them straight in the eye. If you allow them to happen time and again, you will end up smoking more than you used to smoke This is the sad truth, like it or not.

Have the mental strength to be successful.

Darren Warmuth

Article Source: http://www.myaddirectory.com

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