Cigarettes are hard to give up once you are addicted. It is a habit that is both physically and psychological difficult to break. This is especially true if you have smoked for a long time. Another factor that can be extremely difficult for those trying to quit is if their spouses smoke also. Despite the extra hardship, those desiring to give up cigarettes must soldier on in their efforts. Use the following techniques to help you quit smoking and, hopefully, inspire your better half to quit as well.
Step 1
Request that your partner quit smoking along with you. If she agrees, it will be a project you can work on together. But if she is resistant, let her know you still desire to quit.
Step 2
Plan out how you intend to quit. Consult your physician or a therapist for expert advice. Encourage your partner to help you in deciding your strategy.
Step 3
Communicate your intentions to stop smoking to your spouse. Be clear about what he can do to support you. Support may include agreeing not to smoke in the car when you are present or not making it an issue if you have a slip-up. Your spouse can also steer your smoking buddies out of doors for a cigarette when they visit.
Step 4
Invite your spouse to celebrate your successes with you. For example, if you go 30 days without a cigarette, celebrate by going out to dinner together (sit in a nonsmoking area!).
Step 5
Ask your spouse to limit her smoking to a particular area that you can avoid. Explain to her the importance of her not smoking in your presence.
Step 6
Give your partner permission to not feel guilty about not quitting with you. Be sincere. If your spouse has guilt about continuing to smoke, it could lead him to unconsciously sabotage your efforts.
Step 7
Resist the temptation to "nag" your spouse about quitting, too. Make it clear this is your desire but understand that he will only quit when he is ready. Know that if you do pester your partner, it may increase your stress level and therefore your desire to smoke.
Step 8
Persist in trying to quit smoking. Don't let a slip-up put you back where you started. For instance, if you had a smoke at a party with your spouse, it does not mean you have to starting smoking regularly because of this mistake.
Tips and Warnings
- If your spouse insists on smoking in the house, ask him to confine it to a well-ventilated room. Distract yourself from smoking with exercise. Invite your partner to join you in the venture. Engaging in activities together that do not involve smoking will help you quit and will silently encourage your spouse to quit as well.
