The approach of the New Year brings hope for making new resolutions, but maintaining these commitments in the face of the temptation to smoke during festive occasions is the real challenge. Many people trying to quit wonder how to resist the social pressure to smoke during celebrations.
Developing an action plan is essential to achieve these smoking cessation goals. In this article, Alexia Adda, Ambassador of French Care, member of the MentalTech Collective, and Co-founder of Klava Innovation, guides you in overcoming this challenge and avoiding relapse during this delicate period.
- Avoid your triggers, steer clear of situations that challenge you !
Triggers are anything that can evoke memories, thoughts, or feelings associated with your use. This may include a person, a place, an emotion, an activity, a smell, or a time of day that triggers the urge to smoke or brings up emotions that may lead you to use. Triggers vary greatly from one person to another, but the general rule is to avoid them whenever possible.Plan strategies to cope with triggers by thinking ahead about what you will do if one arises on New Year’s Day.If there is a place you associate with your use, avoid going there during the holidays. Avoid planning activities that have always been linked to smoking.
- Explore alternatives and stay active, the key to overcoming temptations !
When you quit smoking, it can be difficult to remember the activities you used to enjoy due to the impact of substance use on the brain’s reward system.Stay engaged in enjoyable or relaxing activities such as reading, walking, meditation, or games to keep your mind off the urge to smoke. If smoking was associated with festive events, plan alternatives in advance to fill those moments, such as playing games, chatting with friends, or helping with meal preparation.
- Don’t hesitate to ask for help, seek support from your peers
The influence of your social circle can be perceived negatively, but it can also be a valuable source of support. Are you worried about relapsing during the holidays ?Share this concern with your friends and family, who can support you in your action plan and your quitting goals. Choose carefully the people who will best support you in your journey. For additional support, connect with former smokers specialized in addiction, often referred to as “peer experts.” They can share practical advice to manage withdrawal symptoms, strengthen motivation, and explore different methods to quit smoking.
- Radiate positivity, cultivate a winning mindset !
Push aside intrusive thoughts such as “Am I ready?”, “I’m going to fail,” or “I won’t be able to resist temptation, I know it.” These types of thoughts can indeed lead to use if they are not challenged, as negative thinking discourages you from seeking help and reinforces a false and limiting self-image.Consider keeping a simple journal to track your inner dialogue and negative thoughts. Over time, you can turn these “all-or-nothing” thoughts into more compassionate ones.
- Build your success in the short term, set daily goals
Stay focused on the present moment and keep in mind that small daily changes lead to significant long-term results.If you intend to reduce your tobacco consumption, set a goal for example, by aiming to reduce your smoking from 10 to 8 cigarettes in a single day. You can choose to eliminate the ones you consider least necessary during the day, whether those in the afternoon or those before going to bed. Take the time to think this through before putting your action plan in place.
By combining these tips with determination and preparation, vous pouvez traverser la période des fêtes sans rechuter.Quitting smoking is not a sprint but a marathon. It is essential to listen carefully to your body and respect each step of the process. Cravings can vary depending on the method used and your mindset. If you are well prepared mentally, your goal of quitting will be easier to achieve.
Alexia Adda, Co-founder of Klava Innovation
