How to Quit Smoking

We all know people that have successfully stopped smoking and some that have gone back to the habit during difficult times in their life. You can quit smoking, if you have a good plan and a little persistence on your part. There are many programs to assist you to stop smoking.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Commit to quitting. You have to quit smoking because you want to quit smoking. Make a list of reasons to quit. Review the list often, especially during the times of your craving for a cigarette.
2. Pick a quit date and plot your strategy for quitting smoking. Prior to your quit date, get rid of all your smoking-related items, such as ashtrays and lighters. It is also good to think about why previous attempts to quit smoking have failed.
3. Ask others for their support in your attempt to quit smoking and ask them to refrain from smoking around you. Talk also with a doctor about your options for anti-smoking support groups. Evidence supports a combination of medication, counseling and social activities have been the best options for quitting smoking.
4. Prepare for withdrawal symptoms during your quest to quit smoking. Avoid places or people that may tempt you to smoke. Replace a cigarette with a carrot or a piece of gum. Stay busy to fight off the urge to smoke, as they often pass within a few minutes.
5. Plan for continued success for the rest of your life. It just a matter of continuing your activities that helped you through your withdrawal from smoking. If you slip up, think about what caused you to smoke and decide how you will handle the situation better next time. Do not be discouraged, as it takes several times before someone quits smoking for good.