There’s No Gain Without Commitment

I’m going to blow away the myth in that other well worn phrase……

Let’s face it - if you aren’t committed to something then how are you going to make it work? In life we are all motivated towards pleasure and away from pain (displeasure) – examine everything you do and you will be sure to come up with that conclusion…..

So "no gain without pain" (if it is true) IS going to be a self-defeating, two-edged sword for anyone, for the pain is the very reason why we give up on things.

And so this is why giving up smoking is a real toughie – and those who have already done it will bear witness to that fact. But the tough part comes because you are setting your Willpower against your unconscious habitual programming.

You will see and hear many arguments about smoking cessation from mainstream therapy and healthcare and there are persuasive ads showing you the benefits of patches and gum. But what are the upsides of a nicotine hit upon the system - essentially it stimulates releases of adrenaline and dopamine (the feelgood hormone). The amount of nicotine in a cigarette stays in the system for about 20 minutes – so this is why habitual smokers keep coming back for more. Casual smokers are not hooked because (a) they get their adrenaline and dopamine stimulation by other means and (b) smoking is not an associated habit for them. They can take it or leave it.

So for the habitual smoker, we need to give them the tools for cessation on several levels…but one thing prevails above all other factors. Commitment is paramount – commitment is vital – for there is No Gain Without Commitment.

Tools for smoking cessation:

Understanding why and when you smoke

My first task will be look at your habitual patterns and to find out what buzz or pleasure you get from smoking. This gives us a handle on what needs to be turned around.

Change your beliefs

Whatever anyone’s beliefs are about an undertaking – then their actions will work towards carrying out those beliefs. So - my next task will be to change your belief such that you believe strongly and positively that you can indeed stop smoking and overcome habitual limitations.

Reducing your cravings and desire to smoke

Using a variety of techniques I will show you how to distract, replace and reframe the desire to smoke with things far more healthy and positive – giving you back your freedom of choice to “boldly go” towards a newer and better you

Set yourself a starting day, some point in the near future. Inform as many people close to you as you can so they are aware and will support you in the process. Set up some “cue cards” to remind you at home, work, in the car, etc that you are setting out on this journey to a better life.

Time-line visualisation

Imagine yourself some time forward from your “Start Day” and see yourself as a fitter, healthier, calm and relaxed smoke-free person. Make the images big, bright, bold in colour, get in touch with how you know it will feel. See and hear the admiration of your family and friends as they enjoy being with the new healthier, cleaner, fitter and more attractive you.

Positive affirmations

Say to yourself at every opportunity – I am a fitter, healthier, freer person than I was yesterday, and every day I am getting better and better. I’m looking forward to spending some of the money I have saved on things I really want. I can really taste my food, improved my stamina and given my heart a new lease of life.

Direct suggestions through trancework

The final link in the chain is to cement all the positive conversational work we have already done by speaking directly to your unconscious. By showing it all the benefits and getting it to agree and take forward all the changes we want to bring about, you have that inner ally to making the whole process a success. By breaking and changing the habits embedded in your unconscious, it will now work in tandem with your willpower.

Sounds quite straightforward and compelling doesn’t it??

It’s your life....and it's your choice!

Peter Wright Hypnotherapy

Online and throughout South and West England