Millions of Americans smoke cigarettes. Many of them may try to stop, but the cravings just keep them going. Cigarettes contain nicotine, an addictive substance. Nicotine makes it difficult for people to stop smoking when they are already initiated into it.

Some people wonder if it is possible to overcome the temptation and cravings for cigarettes. And there is that possibility; how easy is the process. It turns out it is possible to overcome the temptation. Let’s look at some things an individual can do to overcome the cravings for cigarettes.

Move away from your smoking; do something different.

Doing something different is a great way to overcome the temptations of smoking. Keeping your hands busy by holding something; say a book could help you not to hold a cigarette and take it to your mouth. Or maybe you can try some sort of activity like fixing a puzzle. Doing another activity not only helps to keep your hands off the cigarette, it also keeps your mind busy enough to not think of smoking. If you continue with this, you just might eventually defeat your cravings for cigarettes.

Avoid temptations

There are some things and situations that will provoke cravings for smoking. We know these things yet we let them get the better part of us. If you trying to deal with your cravings, shun all known temptations; alcohol, parties, friends who smoke, etc. Avoid these temptations as much as possible. Rather than attending a party where you know you will have to drink, go swimming, or take a walk. And if you must drink wherever you find yourself, go for non-alcoholic products. The message is simple; flee the temptation as much as possible.

Reflect on the good and the bad of smoking

Sometimes, when we take out time to reflect on the damages smoking could cause our body, and the benefits we could reap if we did not smoke, it could spur us to consider not taking up a cigarette. Take some time out to reflect on the harm you could be causing yourself when you smoke. Also think of how great your health will be if you did not smoke. For some people, it could help to kill the cravings for cigarettes.

Do you really want to overcome the cravings for smoking? You alone are the key solution to the problem. While others may support you in this, you alone are responsible for the final outcome of your effort. Make up your mind to resist cigarettes and be determined about it. Do you best to respect the rules you set keeping you away from cigarettes. If you do all these, you are very close to fully overcoming any possible temptation and craving for cigarettes.