Has anyone ever successfully overcome a bad habit?

Question

Big or small, how did you overcome a bad habit and what steps did you take in the process?

Answer 1

quit smoking. my daughter went to the alter to pray for me to stop. i knew i had to or she would think God didnt answer prayers. it was the hardest thing. but for her i did it.

Answer 2

As many have already stated; be supportive and patient. He is not only quitting cigarettes, but the nicotine the body now craves. Keep plenty of celery, carrots and other snacks around and don't be suprised if you see him holding a celery stick like a cig. There are all the physical habits that are associated with smoking that will need time to disappear (the lighting of the smoke, the disposal of ashes, the ashtray routine, and of course the purchasing of cigs to say the least). Generally, it takes over three weeks for a new habit to begin to replace an old one. No matter what you are dealing with; cigs, alcohol, and any other addictions. Be aware of the times when he would normally smoke (as soon as he gets in the cars, right after a meal, when stressed, etc.), and help find a replacement activity that will ease the lack of those activities. There will also be a grieving process that will take place. The 'loss' of an old friend. Increasing physical activity will get the brain and body working to combat the stress and side-effects of the body beginning to detoxify from nicotine. Remind him of the many rewards he will obtain: better health, less smelly clothes and breath, and of course all the money spent on cigs. Maybe suggest you take the money and place it in a 'non-smoking party fund' and find a way to celebrate when he feels he has truly kicked the habit. Best of luck to your husband. Be his strength and understanding and he will never forget your actions.

Answer 3

After reading the Holy Qura'n with proper understanding in the language i understood the best I gave up the habit of Alcoholism Alhamdolillah.

Answer 4

Quit smoking 14 years ago. Used the Nicorette gum and a LOT of willpower.

Answer 5

Yes, one I did overcome, and that was through meds and therapy. My other bad habit, cigarette smoking is another story. We've tried about everything--except hypnosis--which they, for some reason will not do for me.

Answer 6

i used to smoke too, but i just never bought another cigarette pack and i just didn't think about it. i chewed a lot of gum and kept my mind on better, positive things. think about positive things instead of ur bad habit.

Answer 7

RUN FROM IT... No joke, Bible says run from temptation. Just replace temptation with bad habit. Run from it. Don't give it opportunity to happen.

Answer 8

Added more pain to the thing i considered pleasureable, then added more pleasure to that i considered more painful eg. smoking gave me pleasure, i added more pain to the bad column, then added more pleasure to being a non smoker. Pen & paper might help.

Answer 9

i quit smoking 18 years ago and havent had one since. it was hard. no patches or drugs just will power. of course i failed for YEARS before it stuck and .... swear to God, 18 years later I still smoke in my dreams.