9 Ways to Get Back on Track

Many ex-smokers had to try stopping a few times before they finally succeeded. When people slip up, it's usually within the first three months after quitting. Here's what you can do if it happens to you:
· Understand that you've had a slip. You've had a small setback. This doesn't turn you into a smoker again.
· Don't be too hard on yourself. One slip-up doesn't make you a failure. It doesn't mean you can't quit for good.
· Don't be too easy on yourself, either. If you slip up, don't say, "Well, I've blown it. I might as well smoke the rest of this pack." It's important to get back on the non-smoking track right away. Remember, your goal is no cigarettes — not even one puff.
· Acknowledge all the time you went without smoking. Try to learn how to improve your coping skills.
· Find the trigger. Exactly what was it that made you smoke? Be aware of that trigger. Decide now how you will cope with it when it comes up again.
· Learn from your experience. What has helped you the most to keep from smoking? Make sure to do that on your next attempt.
· Are you using a medicine to help you quit? Don't stop using it after only one or two cigarettes. Stay with it — it will help you get back on track.
· Refer to resources that helped you stop in the beginning. Start to stop again!
· See your doctor or other health professional. He or she can help motivate you to quit smoking.