The start of a calendar year normally brings with it a sense of new beginnings and resolutions. If you’re a smoker, this might be a good time to quit.

Many liken smoking to being in the thralls of a toxic relationship. We lavish time and money on it and know every reason why we shouldn’t continue yet many people persist regardless. Breaking the cycle is never easy. But breaking it for good will be one of the best decisions you make, and every year millions of people successfully quit. 

Many former smokers note health concerns, a decline in fitness and the burden smoking placed on relationships as some of the fundamental reasons for quitting.

Smoking can affect multiple aspects of daily life, from physical performance to social connections. It may contribute to increased fatigue, reduced stamina, and even heightened social discomfort, making everyday interactions and activities more challenging. In contrast, quitting smoking can lead to noticeable improvements in energy, and overall quality of life. It allows individuals to be more present, enjoy meaningful moments more fully, and create space both mentally and physically for new experiences and personal growth.

Whatever your motivation, the best thing anyone who smokes can do for themselves is quit. 

Every day that you go tobacco and nicotine-free is a victory for the health and well-being of your body.  

Setting parameters will keep you focused and make progress more tangible. Perhaps you’d like to improve your fitness for an upcoming adventure or feel your best at a friend’s imminent nuptials. Identifying motivating factors early on and keeping end goals in mind will help you on your smoke-free journey. 

Having a network that will support you in your determination will also be hugely advantageous. Whether family, friends, partners or one of the countless online communities ready to offer advice at the drop of a hat, surround yourself with people who will champion your ambition. Those who cheer you on as you progress and motivate you when you encounter setbacks will be instrumental to your success. 

Quitting tobacco and nicotine is always the best choice a smoker can make, but many don’t. For those who don’t quit cigarettes, switching to smoke-free alternatives are available to give smokers a better alternative than continuing to smoke. Products like nicotine pouches, heated tobacco, and e-cigarettes deliver nicotine in different ways, without burning. When there’s no burning, there’s no smoke for you or those around you. 

More than 6,000 chemicals have been identified in cigarette smoke, around 100 of which have been classified by public health authorities as harmful or potentially harmful. The primary cause of smoking-related diseases is the inhalation of high levels of harmful chemicals in the smoke produced as a result of combustion. 

Of course, smoke-free products are not risk-free and contain nicotine, which is addictive, but the reduction in harmful chemicals makes them a far better choice for adults than continuing to smoke.

Progress of any kind starts by identifying and understanding what needs to change. Taking small, positive steps of any kind will propel you in your smoke-free journey.

Sponsored by Philip Morris Management Services (Middle East) Limited

 

topics: healthy, quit smoking