How to Stop Smoking Without Going Cold Turkey

It seems many who smoke want to quit. It is easy to want to quit, but once cigarettes become a steady companion, kicking the habit takes more than a desire to stop. When we are trying to accomplish something this difficult, we need a goal. We need a plan. We need to prepare. We need a plan.

Some of the items you will want on hand include note paper, small lollipops, plastic straws, and determination.

First, decide what your goal date will be. Write it down. Choose the time you need. Will it take six weeks, or six months? Unlike quitting cold turkey, reducing the amount of cigarettes in your life a little at a time allows you to have some control over the effects of nicotine leaving your system. Some of us who were not successful quitting cold turkey found this to be an easier way.

Cigarettes with cold beverages? Make a plan! List the most important cigarettes of the day. Do you need one with your morning coffee? Do you always smoke while on the phone? Do you usually smoke while driving? List the ones you are keeping, and the cigarettes you are ready to give up! This is your plan. You decide the minimum amount of cigarettes you need to survive the day. For most, 10 cigarettes a day seems to be the starting point.

Once you have the first amount in mind, you decide if you need two weeks, or just one, before again cutting the number of cigarettes you smoke.

Prepare. Keep lollipops on hand. We used Dum Dum pops, found at The Dollar Tree, yes, for just one dollar.

Plastic straws, cut in half, are preferred by those who do not want to add sugar to their life. These will help you have something to fiddle with, and to satisfy any oral fixation you may have.

Before your first day: Clean your car, your home, and your work area. Stale cigarette odors may make you feel ill once you are smoking less.

Make an appointment to have your teeth cleaned.

Let your friends know you are doing this, and will not allow them to smoke in your home, or near your. Ask for their support in this life altering, possibly life saving, decision. Take action. You can do this. Millions before you have, and we are here for you! Just ask those around you who have done this before to help you when you feel you are being tempted.