Steven says
... realize that the first day will be the hardest and to not pick up that cigarette. The final step is to stay away from any temptation for the first two weeks. Transition: Now I already explained why you should quit; now I’m going to give you pointers to following though. Main Point I: The first step is to convince yourself that you want to quit. Pick a day to quit about two weeks after the day you decide you are going to quit. (Cleaning the Air) (The Quest for the Quit) A. The first thing you should do is immediately switch brands of cigarettes. a. Find a brand that you find distasteful. Make sure it is low in tar and nicotine. B. Cut down on the number of cigarettes you smoke. a. Only smoke the cigarettes you “really” want. b. If you must have a cigarette, try to only smoke half of the cigarette. C. Make smoking inconvenient. a. Stop carrying cigarettes with you and make them difficult to get. b. When you do smoke, try to make the cigarette not pleasurable. If you enjoy smoking with other people. Smoke alone and focus on the cigarette and all its negative effects. Main Point II: The day you quit will be the hardest, but whatever you do don’t pick up that cigarette. A. Throw away all your cigarettes and matches and hide your ashtrays and lighters. B. Make a visit to the dentist. a. Have your teeth cleaned of all tobacco stains and notice how nice your teeth look. b. Your breath will also smell better, making kissing more enjoyable for your boyfriend/girlfriend and for yourself. C. One of the most important things on quitting day is to keep busy. a. Do things that will keep your mind off smoking. b. Movies and exercising are two great activities that will keep you smoke free for the first day. D. Whenever you get the urge for a cigarette just visualize the black hot stinky tar laden smoke scalding your esophagus as it makes its way down to your lungs. (Compare pictures on Power Point) Main Point III: For the first couple of weeks avoid temptations. A. Understand that withdrawal symptoms are temporary. (Cleaning the Air) a. Some of these symptoms may include anger, boredom, depression, fatigue, dizziness, lack of concentration, and weight gain. b. They usually only last for 1-2 weeks. B. Know that most relapses occur in the first week after quitting, when your body is still dependent on nicotine. C. When you get the urge for a cigarette stay calm (Why Do You Smoke?) a. Try having a conversation instead. b. If you...