Exchanging Habits

Breaking a bad habit, like smoking for instance, is never easy. It seems all the focus is on not doing something, which only serves to keep your mind on the thing you don’t want to do.

There is another way to break a bad habit. Exchanging one habit for another is often times much easier than simply stopping a bad habit. But what should you try? Of course a healthy habit is best; you could try a brisk walk, plant something in the yard, read a good book, call a friend or even grab a handful of heart healthy almonds.

Sometimes though, a healthy habit is hard to get ingrained into your routine. Rest assured even if you start an unhealthy habit, such as a handful of chocolate chips or pint of Ben and Jerry’s, you will still come out ahead. Some doctors say that you can gain as much as 20 pounds and still be in better shape than if you were still smoking.

Of course the best way to quit is to consult your doctor. Nicotine, especially for those who have smoked for a long time, is best removed from your system gradually. You and your doctor can decide which withdrawal management system to use and also which habit breaking tools are best to try for your situation.