The best way to break a bad habit is to replace it with something else. Quickly coming up with an alternative to smoking can feel near impossible. After all, craving a cigarette pecks at you like an insistent toddler in the candy aisle. Here's an at-the-ready list to help you say no.
Just reading through this list can help strengthen your resolve. Try a few and track what helps. Keep the list growing by adding your own.
Right This Moment
Eat crunchy, fresh vegetables
Eat a piece of candy.
Chew on a toothpick.
Chew gum.
Take deep breaths
Drink a cold glass of water.
Eat a popsicle.
Brush and floss your teeth.
Get the mail.
Think about your reasons for quitting smoking.
Take a shower.
March in place.
Get Out & About
Take a drive.
Walk the dog.
Read a book.
Go to the library.
Go to a museum.
Take photographs.
Go fishing.
Watch the sunrise.
Play in the snow or rain.
Go hiking.
Go to an amusement park.
Take a walk in the woods or park.
Enjoy a sunset.
Stay Inside
Call a friend.
Play with your cat.
Write a friend an email.
Do a crossword puzzle.
Keep your hands busy with knitting, crocheting or needlepoint.
Take a relaxing bath.
Give yourself a manicure and pedicure.
Take a nap.
Read a magazine.
Call someone.
Sing.
Explore your genealogy.
Make a scrapbook.
Write a letter.
Make a healthy snack.
Write a poem.
Drink a cup of tea.
Make a card for someone.
Write a list of things you're grateful for.
Feeling Productive?
Scrub the floor.
Organize a drawer or closet.
Pull weeds.
Go grocery shopping.
Wash your car.
Organize your computer files.
Do the dishes.
Clean out the refrigerator.
Volunteer time to an organization that needs help.