No one likes being called a “quitter,” but when it pertains to quitting smoking, it’s actually an impressive title to have. By giving up smoking, you’re not only improving your health and saving money, you’re starting a positive life transformation.
As much as the benefits abound, quitting smoking can be tough. At first, it may even feel like losing an old, familiar friend. But in life there are many instances when giving up one thing (a relationship, a job, a habit) can open the door to positive growth. Next time you think about “quitting” as a loss, remember these five examples that show how “quitting” can lead to positive results, and prepare to be the greatest quitter you can be.
1. Quitting Foreign Rule
Perhaps one of the most famous events of American history, the American Revolution, was one enormous “I quit!” After years of being ruled by the British, the colonists decided that they had enough with being taxed and ruled from across the sea. They fought against the odds, and formed their own country. Years later, we still celebrate this momentous occasion with fireworks and barbeques. Imagine what sort of celebration you will be able to enjoy when you are finally smokefree!
2. Quitting the Band
How many of your favorite bands have broken up, just to splinter off and create a new and interesting sound? Some of the most famous bands are made up of musicians who were previously in other groups. Calling it quits in one part of your life can lead to new opportunities in other areas. So let that mic drop, along with the extra spending that comes with smoking. You can save hundreds, if not thousands of dollars (over time), by quitting smoking. At $5.76 per pack, your yearly savings could add up to $1,450 per year.* With all the money you can save by not smoking, why not buy a new instrument and start jamming?
3. Quitting a Toxic Relationship
Some friendships aren’t meant to last a lifetime. If you’re not being supported or cherished in the way that you deserve, it might be time to end the relationship. Similarly, plan your breakup with cigarettes – they take up a lot of your time, time that could be spent with supportive friends and loved ones. If you’re a pack-a-day smoker, and assuming it takes about five minutes to smoke a cigarette, then quitting smoking can save you approximately 600 hours per year. Transform your new free time into you time!
4. Quitting Before Injury
If your body is talking to you, listen. Pro-athletes are usually good at listening to their bodies’ signals. While they may have been champions in their prime, many athletes make the decision to quit playing when their bodies tell them it’s time. Take a cue from these professional quitters and listen to your body. Is it telling you that it's had enough of the negative effects of smoking, such as smoker's cough, shortness of breath, and tired muscles? Now is the time to consult with your healthcare provider.
5. Quitting Junk Food
In the past few years, the public has become more aware of the harmful effects of saturated and trans fats found in many processed foods. Many consumers have stopped buying heavily-processed foods to make room for better tasting, natural products. When quitting smoking, one physical benefit can help you eat more healthfully: within 48 hours of quitting smoking, your taste buds will start to repair themselves, allowing you better savor the flavors of healthy fruits and vegetables.
“Quitting” doesn’t always mean failure. In some cases, it can actually be a gateway to success. Taking the first steps, such as finding supportive friends and coworkers, picking a quit date, and talking to a healthcare professional will help you understand a way to quit that is best for you. Know that when you’re ready to quit, you’re in good company.
*The average price of a pack of cigarettes is $5.76 and the average smoker smokes 13.8 cigarettes per day, Based on 2014 figures.
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