What to do
...When The Craving Comes
1. When you're challenged by a strong urge to smoke, take a few deep breaths and remember your determination to be free.
2. Think of your most important reason for wanting to stop. Say it out loud in front of the mirror.
3. Do not start feeling sorry for yourself. It's the people who are still smoking who should be pitied. You were smart enough to follow a program and stop smoking.
4. Immediately turn your attention to something else. Use any of the distraction and coping techniques from your "Plan Ahead-Part 1" sheet. Remember that even the most intense craving lasts only a few minutes--5 or 10 at the most. The urge passes whether you smoke a cigarette or not.
5. Do something with your hands. Knit. Doodle. Play with coins. Write a letter.
6. Be good to yourself in every possible way. Even indulge yourself a little. Enjoy a special treat on weekends (a good meal, a show, etc.) with the money you've saved.
7. Frequent places where you don't smoke rather than places where you do.
8. Curb use of alcohol and caffeine.
9. Seek the company of nonsmokers.
10. Concern yourself only with today--tomorrow will take care of itself. Get through today without smoking
Are there any other things you can think of to help pass the time?
List any and all.
Remember, we're in this together and together we can get through this!
Peace!