Driving in a car is a major trigger for many quitters. Here’s some tips to help with the cravings while driving. Feel free to add your own.
• Remove the ashtray, lighter, and cigarettes from your car.
• Turn your radio on or put on your favourite tape or CD and sing along.
• Clean your car and make sure to use deodorizers to reduce the tobacco smell.
• Ask friends and passengers not to smoke in your car.
• If you’re not driving, find something to do with your hands.
• Take an alternate route to work.
• Try carpooling.
• For a little while, avoid taking long car trips. If you do, take plenty of rest stops.
• Keep non-fattening snacks in your car (sunflower seeds, licorice, and sugarless gum and hard candy).
• Take fresh fruit with you on long trips.
• Plan stops for water or fruit juice.
Tell yourself:
• “This urge will go away in a few minutes.”
• “So, I’m not enjoying this car ride. Big deal! It won’t last forever!”
• “My car smells clean and fresh!”
• “I’m a better driver now that I’m not smoking while driving.”
Ashley, Health Educator
