Here are some things to remember as you begin your journey to quit:
- Set a date to quit, and develop a plan to make it happen.
- Talk to your doctor about how he or she can help.
- Find a smoking cessation treatment or over-the-counter medication that fits your lifestyle.
- Tell your family and friends that you plan to quit smoking, and explain how they can help.
- Find a family member or friend who can quit with you.
- Remove all cigarettes and tobacco products from your home, office and vehicle.
- Be realistic about the challenges and discomfort you’ll have to overcome when you quit smoking.
- Set some initial goals. These could be anything from reducing the number of cigarettes you smoke per day to quitting completely by the end of the calendar year.
- Identify your “smoking triggers,” and think about the changes you’ll need to make to avoid them.
- Stock up on healthy snacks and sugar-free gum, which will help control cravings.
- Take things one day a time, and stay positive!