Smoking and Driving
Most people who smoke will do so when they are driving or are a passenger in a vehicle. When making the effort to quit, it may be especially difficult in this situation, as you will not be able to leave the environment, and long drives may lead to boredom. Being in a car, however, need not be the downfall of your cessation efforts. As with all other aspects of quitting, it will take planning and commitment. Do not expect to get into a car that you used to smoke in and not feel the temptation. Instead, be prepared for the cravings, and make a plan to change those old smoking habits.
Be prepared for quitting by having your car cleaned and detailed before your quit date. Watch as this is being done. You will be surprised by the tar that comes off of the windows and interior. Remove the ashtray if possible. Put in an air freshener.
When commuting, vary your route. This will help you pay more attention to driving.
Keep a bottle of ice water in the car. It will give you something to do.
Treat yourself to your favorite tapes or compact discs. Sing along with them. Don’t worry about being observed by other drivers. If that is the silliest thing you do all day, then you are ahead of the game.
If you are a passenger, read a book, newspaper or magazine aloud. If you are the driver, ask your passenger to read to you.
Congratulate yourself for driving more safely now that you don’t have to risk your life and the lives of others by searching for a lit cigarette on the floor board while navigating through traffic. You know it has happened to you. You probably have the burn marks in the carpet to prove it.
Concentrate on keeping both hands on the wheel. We tend to forget that this is the way we are supposed to drive.
Chew on a minted toothpick.
If you find it unbearable to drive for long distances without a cigarette, be sure to make stops, not to smoke, but to take a short walk or buy a soda. This brief change in your environment will give you the opportunity to renew your commitment to avoiding nicotine.
Think about the reasons you decided to quit. Think about all the benefits you will reap, if you are not already reaping them. Imagine the freedom of not having your thoughts consumed by where you will smoke next.
If you have a passenger, talk to them rather than riding silently. If you have nothing to say, and your passenger is understanding of your situation, just say whatever you are thinking, even if it’s a running commentary of what is currently happening. The content is not as important as the fact that you are talking and thinking instead of smoking.
Consider rewarding yourself with something pleasurable that does not involve smoking once you reach your destination smoke-free.