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1. madeleine, quit coach

   

   33 posts
   Registered:
   12 Sep 2018
   27 Feb 2019

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   A very common concern when quitting smoking is what to do when a craving hits! Cravings can be unpredictable and can occupy the mind, so some find it handy to have a list of distractions to refer to and start working down their list until that craving goes away. Keep your list handy and visible and repeat for the next craving!
   
   Here's an example of a distractions list: 
   
   1. Brush my teeth 
   2. Do the dishes 
   3. Walk the dog 
   4. Take a shower 
   5. Do a crossword on my phone 
   6. Do a page in my adult colouring book  
   7. Call a friend
   8. etc. 
   
   Now your turn, what does your list of distractions look like? Where would you keep this list so that it is easily accessible? 
   
   Thanks! 
   
   Madeleine 
2. lisads

   

   22 posts
   Registered:
   21 Feb 2019
   27 Feb 2019

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   Thanks madeleine!
   
   I keep my reasons I’ve quit, mantras and now my things to do when cravings hit list as a note on my phone for easy access. 
   
   1. A long sip of water
   2. Brush my teeth 
   3. Smell my lavender and black pepper essential oil
   4. Eat a tic tac or chew gum
   5. Come on here and read posts 
3. atp

   

   501 posts
   Registered:
   31 Dec 2018
   28 Feb 2019 in reply to lisads

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   For the first days and weeks of my quit my lists consisted of:
   -Smokers helpline community forums - really helped me keep my focus on my quit. Didn't realize how much I would rely on it. 
   -Slow sip of water
   -eat some Nibs, slowly.
   -I am better than my addiction and deserve to live smoke free. 
4. efram, quit coach

   

   242 posts
   Registered:
   29 Nov 2017
   06 Mar 2019

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   I love the distractions I'm seeing here, please keep them coming! 
   
   Lisads, I never would have thought of the essential oil option. That sounds like an enjoyable and effective distraction.
   
   Atp, thanks for listing slow sips of water. It's one of the more refreshing distractions and works so well for so many!
   
   It's also good to see that you've both also listed ways to keep your motivation strong, whether it be visiting SHL.ca or saying a mantra.