Quitting smoking might be one of the hardest things you'll ever do. On the other hand, it will most likely be one of the most important things you do, not only for your overall well-being and finances, but for increasing your chances of longevity. According to the National Cancer Institute, smokers who quit by the age of 30 reduce their chances of premature death by more than 90 percent than if they continue to smoke. If you haven't reached the age of 30 and you want to quit, now is the best time to do so.
Step 1
Pick a quit date -- within the next two weeks -- and stick with it. Inform your friends, family and co-workers that you plan to stop smoking on this date. Throw away all of your leftover cigarettes the night before.
Step 2
Ask your friends, family and co-workers for support. If you know anyone who smokes, ask them to refrain from doing so when you're around. This involves letting others know that you might be irritable, edgy or have other unpredictable moods. You can advise them that the sooner you stop, the sooner you'll be back to your old self.
Step 3
Talk to your doctor about nicotine replacement or other pharmaceutical options that can help you deal with cravings and other withdrawal symptoms you may experience once you quit. Using a smoking cessation aid can double your chances of quitting for good, according to Smokefree.gov.
Step 4
Make a plan for times when cravings strike. Call a friend, work out at the gym or go for a walk. Plan to do something to get your mind off cigarettes.
Step 5
Consult a counselor. Counseling is often beneficial for smokers who want to quit. You can call the National Quitline at 1-800-QUITNOW (see Resources) for free support from a trained counselor as well as information and referrals to counselors in your area.
Step 6
Write down your reasons for quitting. Remind yourself of the health benefits of quitting before you turn 30. You'll feel better, have a lower chance of developing certain types of diseases such as lung cancer and heart disease, have more money, and you'll no longer walk around smelling like cigarette smoke. Read your list whenever you feel tempted to start smoking again.
