Positive Thoughts Lead to Positive Action

A positive attitude is the only way that anyone can be successful when beginning a smoking cessation program. Even a long-time smoker can quit if he believes that he can. In fact, a study by the University of Michigan concluded that a positive attitude is necessary to break any habit and that people with a positive attitude are 65 percent more likely to succeed in breaking the cigarette habit.
Before starting a cessation program, a smoker should set his goals, both short term and long term. This gives him something to focus on when following the journey to the smoke-free life gets difficult. In addition, having goals– something to look forward to on a bad day– can make even the worst days look a little better.
Another key component of keeping a positive outlook during the program is to decide on a mantra or a short phrase to repeat for encouragement. This mantra should be uplifting. It should make the smoker feel better about him and the fact that he is giving up a bad habit.
Planning personal time throughout the day, in one to five minute segments, has also been proved to help smoking cessation participants keep a positive outlook on the quitting process. These segments should include time to recite the positive mantra and for a short relaxation exercise.
Finally, having someone who is willing to be on call at all times for the smoker is a must. This person must be someone who can inspire the smoker to overcome the craving. Coupled with all of the other methods, positive thinking is usually effective in lessening cravings.