Ready to stop smoking? We all know smoking’s health risks. There are also other problems that smoking can cause, such as enjoying physical activity or qualifying for Life Insurance. Still, knowing the benefits of quitting doesn’t make it any easier to do so. That’s because smoking tobacco is not only a physical addiction, but also a psychological habit.
Cigarettes have nicotine, which provides a temporary high. Eliminating that regular fix of nicotine can cause your body to experience physical withdrawal symptoms and cravings. Also, smoking is a daily habit. You may be accustomed to having a cigarette with your morning coffee, after a meal, or while you’re heading home at the end of the day. If friends, family, or colleagues smoke, smoking may be part of the way you relate with them.
To successfully stop smoking, you need to address both the addiction and the habits and routines that go along with it. Neglecting to do so is one of the reasons why so many people’s attempts at quitting have failed. The S.T.A.R.T. plan can help you can kick the addiction – for good.
What is S.T.A.R.T.?
S = Set a Quit Date
Choose a date within the next two weeks. This will give you enough time to prepare without losing your motivation to quit.
T = Tell Family & Friends Your Plan to Quit
Let them know you need their support and encouragement to stop. If you know another smoker who wants to end the habit, team up as Quit Buddies. You can help each other get through the rough times.
A = Anticipate & Plan for the Challenges & Obstacles
Most people who begin smoking again do so within the first three months. You can help yourself make it through by preparing ahead for common challenges, such as nicotine withdrawal and cigarette cravings.
R = Remove Cigarettes (and other tobacco products) from your Home, Car, and Work
Out of sight, out of mind! Throw away all of your cigarettes, lighters, ashtrays, and matches. Likewise, appreciate the immediate benefits of quitting by washing your clothes and cleaning anything that smells like smoke, including your home and car.
T = Talk to Your Doctor
If needed, your doctor can prescribe medication to help with withdrawal symptoms. If you can’t see a doctor, you can get many products over the counter at your local pharmacy, including nicotine patches, lozenges, and gum.
Most people try to stop smoking several times before they kick the habit for good. Don’t beat yourself up if you slip. Instead, turn the relapse into a rebound by learning from your mistake. Let it motivate you to recognize what went wrong and work past it if and when it happens again. You can do it – and you and your loved ones will be proud of you for even making the attempt.
Still, even if you do relapse, or you want to check the box and get Life Insurance today, SLS makes it easy to do so! Our Whole Life policy has no tests or pre-requisites to qualify. Whether you have weight issues, are a smoker, or any other health concern, you are guaranteed acceptance. Plus, your coverage will never be revoked as long as premiums are paid. Joining is easy: you can purchase your policy online and it even includes a no obligation 60-day return policy.
