Nicotine addictionis the basis for a lot of false beliefs, justifications, and maladaptive behaviors.

People who are addicted to nicotine often believe that cigarettes are necessary for them to function in everyday life.

But it’s also true that you’re able to break that cycle.

The good news: This phase of smoking cessation is temporary.

Self-Pity

Quitting is hard.

Feelings of self-pity are common when quitting cigarettesespecially when you see others around you who are still smoking.

Remember that the discomfort you’re feeling right now will pass.

Nicotine withdrawal is a temporary condition.

Better days are ahead.

Self-Criticism

We are always our own worst critics.

Pay close attention to theself-defeating thoughtsthat are running along in the background of your mind.

And don’t worry if you don’t fully believe what you’re telling yourself.

I’m not weakI’m addicted, and that can be changed."

Blaming Others

It might be tempting to pass blame onto others as you attempt to quit smoking.

Otherwise known as romancing the cigarette, this kind of thought pattern can be detrimental to your progress.

The only way to maintain control for the long haul is to have a zero-tolerance policy with nicotine.

Remember that there is no such thing asjust one cigarette, and adopt N.O.P.E.

(Not One Puff Ever) as your motto.

Impatience

Your smoke-free journey is unique to you and takes as long as it takes.

Not a minute more or less.

Quitting tobacco is a process of gradual release from an addiction that has taken hold over time.

Be patient with yourself and use time as a quit buddy.

Don’t get discouraged if you’re still craving cigarettes.

Each smoke-free day you complete represents a block of that foundation.

Before you know it, you’ll have a strong base that will fully support your smoke-free life.

Take your time and practice patience, primarily with yourself.

You’ll be rewarded a thousand times over for your efforts.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Tips for quitting.

McLaughlin I, Dani JA, De Biasi M.Nicotine withdrawal.Curr Top Behav Neurosci.

2015;24:99-123. doi:10.1007/978-3-319-13482-6_4

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Take steps to quit.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Quitting smoking among adults United States, 2000 - 2015.