You already knew that quitting smoking is hard, and that most people take several attempts to succeed. But that doesn’t mean going back to smoking after a quit attempt comes easily. Here at Nicotinell, we understand the disappointment you might be feeling. But there’s much to learn from the moment - discoveries that can help make your next quit attempt a success.
So stay positive. Be proud of yourself for trying to quit. And before you close the door on your recent attempt, consider doing the following six things:
1
Write down what caused your quit to end.
Knowing your specific smoking triggers will allow you to create a more personalised plan for your next quit attempt.
2
Stay committed to any new healthy practise you launched as part of your quit.
No reason to let a return to smoking cause you to quit exercising, meditating or eating healthier.
3
Reconnect with your reasons to quit.
They’ll help shift your attention from what just happened to what you want to happen the next time you quit.
4
Express gratitude to your team.
Let them know that you appreciated their support and that you’ll need them again for your next quit attempt.
5
Make adjustments to your lifestyle that can make it easier to quit when you try next time.
Nearly three-quarters of all quitters who relapse do so in the presence of people who are smoking — usually after having asked one of them for a cigarette. Consider finding social activities that don’t put you in the presence of smokers as frequently. If stress at work led to your return to smoking, start now to explore a healthier way to relieve work pressures.
6
Set a date for your next quit attempt.
It can be in a few weeks, if you feel you can plan and prepare properly and are eager to try again. Or it can be in several months, giving you time to plan more thoroughly. But having a target date will help you focus on the right thing: succeeding the next time you try.