Smoking From All Side - Several Strategies on How to Stop Smoking
By Vincent Foster

Have you ever heard the expression that it sound\'s like a plan. In order to quit smoking that is exactly what is needed, a plan. Because when we define the term strategy it is defined as A plan of action resulting from strategy or intended to accomplish a specific goal.

For a smoker the plan of action is well worth the effort, because it leads to a goal that pays off in the form of longer life & more prosperous lifestyle. Looking at smoking from all sides is very important when it comes to developing a strategy to stop smoking.

One reason, then to stop smoking is because smoking endangers our health and life. Smoking is linked to more than 25 life threatening diseases. If we are looking at smoking from all sides, we would realize that it is a major contributor of stroke, heart attack, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, as well as lung cancer and other forms of cancers. Smoking makes the breath stink, stains fingers and teeth. In men it can be a major cause of impotence, smokers cough and shortness of breath.

Another perspective that we should look at if we are going to look at smoking from all sides, is that of an unborn child. Pregnant women who smoke endanger their unborn babies, Nicotine and other dangerous chemicals enters the mothers blood stream and pass directly into the womb. The consequences are stillbirth, spontaneous abortions, and infant death syndrome which is greater in women who smoke.

In our developing a strategy as we look at smoking from all sides we should really count the cost. Think how much you pay for cigarettes. Indeed looking at it from this perspective you begin to realize that you are smoking away a small fortune. This is important step in the process of quitting because you must begin to realize what you are losing not only your health but a substantial amount of income.

When you implement your plan to stop smoking small things begin to happen like your food will taste better. Your breath, body and clothing will smell better. If you have children it is less likely that they will smoke if you quit. Most importantly in your strategy never feel that it is to late for you to quit, the sooner you quit, the better.

If you have loved ones that smoke How can you get them to look at smoking from all sides? If you are a nonsmoker who knows the dangers of smoking, you likely feel frustrated when your friends and loved ones continue to smoke. What can you do to help them quit?

Nagging, begging, coercion, and ridicule seldom meet with success. Neither does condescending lectures. Instead of quitting, the smoker may reach for a cigarette to ease the emotional pain these tactics may cause. So try to understand how difficult it is to quit and that for some it is much harder than it is for others.

You need to understand that you can not make a person quit smoking. The inner strength and conviction to quit must come from the person who smokes. They have to want to quit smoking. You need to find loving ways to encourage and support a desire to quit. How can you do that? At the right time, you might express your love for the person and say that you are concerned about his or her smoking habit. Explain that you will be there and give them needed support.

What might you do if your loved one does decide to quit? Keep in mind that he or she may have withdrawal symptoms, these symptom\'s will come in various ways including irritability and depression. Headaches and difficulty in sleeping might be problems too. Remind your loved one that these symptoms are only temporary and are signs that the body is adjusting to a new and healthy equilibrium. Support through this time is so important your mate needs this. It is important to support the mate by being positive and cheerful.

What if there is a relapse? Try not to overreact. Be compassionate. View the situation as a learning experience for both of you, making it more likely that the next attempt will be a success.

Express how happy you are that he or she is quitting. Throughout the withdrawal period, help your loved one avoid stressful situations that could lead to a relapse. By following these suggestions you are not only looking at smoking from all sides. You are taking positive steps to stop smoking.

Vincent Foster is the author of this article. He has spent decades searching for ways to improve the lives of people with Health related issues.