How to Quit Smoking by reducing number of Cigarettes

Gradual Reduction method to quit smoking is not considered best as its success rate is quite low. We provided some facts about it in our last article. But still some people prefer to quit smoking by gradually reducing the number of cigarettes over a period of time. Most people fail in this attempt either due to lack of will or due to lack of preparation. Yes, preparation is necessary to quit smoking. Most people don't prepare and just start the quitting process and get failed. You might think, "what kind of preparation is required to quit smoking ? ". We will tell you further in this article about the required preparation to quit smoking by reducing the number of cigarettes.

There are two types of preparation necessary: Mental and Physical.

Mental Preparation to Quit Smoking

Mental preparation is most necessary. Unless you fill yourself with positive thoughts and will power to quit smoking, you can't succeed. Here are some points that can help you in this preparation.

• You Mind is the Key: Unless you yourself want to quit smoking, you can't do it. If you are doing it under pressure from somebody then most probably your mind will find a way to cheat. So do it for your good.
• Fill your mind with positive thoughts: Positive thoughts include thinking about a better life as an ex-smoker. That better life may be playing without getting tired with your kids or grand kids. Thinking about running a mile without stopping in middle. Thinking of being a role model for others who also want to quit but can't do it due to some reasons.
• Read positive things: Today everybody has got internet access. You may find something positive to read there, such as testimonials of some ex-smokers on different website, where they tell about the positive changes in their life. Some points in such articles will definitely increase your will power.
• Greed for a better health: Sometimes greed is a good thing if done in a positive way. Even if you don't feel lesser than anybody, but still quitting smoking will make your health much better. Greed for that better health. Greed for lesser diseases at an old age.
• Keep your mind engaged: It is better to keep your mind busy for a few weeks when you are quitting smoking. Sometimes a mind with no job to do starts thinking about negative things, such as one puff won't make any difference. Don't fall into such tricks of your mind by preparing in advance. Plan something in advance to do during the quitting process, which can keep you engaged. Something creative will benefit you more as it will keep you mind more busy.

Physical Preparation to Quit Smoking

• Plan you days ahead: It will give you less time to waste in the coming days. The free time during the quitting process may make it harder to spend.
• Make a Smoking Chart: Use a diary, chart or notebook to make a smoking schedule. It should be made in a way where you decrease the number of cigarettes on daily/weekly basis and the interval between cigarettes is increased. One such chart is given at the end of this article. 
• Use a timer: Use a alarm clock or timer to keep track of the interval between cigarettes. It is one of the most important preparation. If you don't have it then your mind may try to fool you by saying that it is almost time for next cigarette while it might be not so. You may use your smartphone for that purpose. The main thing is sticking to the schedule.
• Plan some exercise schedule: It is a good way to quit smoking and getting healthy quickly. Get some equipment that you can afford, as it will motivate you to exercise. You may get some dumbbell and weights. You can also do some free-weight exercise such as push-ups or sit-ups. Some other physical activities such as running, jogging, cycling or swimming can also be included in schedule. Whatever schedule you make, just stick to it.