 |
 |
 |
 |
Remembering the Good Times
What to Expect
You may feel a need to smoke when you do fun things you used to do as a smoker.
A large number of ex-smokers feel like smoking when they think back to happy times that included cigarettes, such as a cup of coffee, sitting with friends, quiet times, driving, etc.
Frequency
These feelings will be strongest in the first two weeks after quitting.
Self-Management
Figure out which memories make you want to smoke most and learn to manage them.
Take up some new activities such as walking, reading, a hobby, playing a sport or attending community events.
Repeat the following: “If I’d known then what I know now, I never would have started smoking.”
Focus on the thought that you will be able to enjoy your good memories longer, now that you’ve quit smoking.
Nicotine and Your Body and Mind
Studies have found that smoking can make people feel happy, stimulated and less anxious.
These feelings may make you want to use tobacco and, when quitting, you may feel sad for the loss of these feelings brought on by tobacco.
Something as simple as a smell, a sound, a color or a voice can make you think of a cigarette. You may feel that you have lost a major source of happiness, but as an ex-smoker you will gain so much more.