Lapses

Nicotine is a physically addictive substance. The brain becomes accustomed to operating under the stimulation of nicotine, and when we stop smoking the brain sends strong signals of cravings for cigarettes.

These urges to smoke can be hard to resist sometimes. In fact, many people who are quitting smoking will at some point succumb to the desire to light up.

We often have a strong urge for nicotine during times of stress, or when we are in situations which we associate with smoking. Many times we will reach for a cigarette without even thinking of it.

If you have a lapse, for whatever the reason, don't give up hope. The first thing to do is to immediately renew your commitment to quitting smoking. Even if you are in the middle of a cigarette, put it out immediately and reflect on the reasons for lighting up.

If you bought a package of cigarettes, throw them in the garbage! Do not allow yourself to have easy access to cigarettes.

Renew Your Commitment

Remember all the reasons for your decision to stop smoking. Remember that by quitting smoking you will be improving your health, extending your life expectancy, improving the environment for your family and friends, and saving money that would otherwise be going up in smoke.

If you have a lapse, be up-front about it. Talk to your family and friends and enlist their moral support in your quest to stop smoking. If your lapse has lasted a few days, you may need nicotine substitutes such as nicotine gum or a nicotine patch to help you get back on track.

Above all, do not view this lapse as a failure. Quitting smoking is a difficult endeavor, and your decision to give up the nicotine habit is to be applauded.

Instead of getting discouraged, view this lapse as a stepping stone on your path to stop smoking. Remember, with every renewed commitment to quitting smoking you are more likely to succeed in giving up the habit for good.