Making the decision to quit smoking puts you on the path to achieving something that will not only benefit your life, but also the lives of those around you. There are many behaviors and tools used to aid individuals in quitting the habit. This article will provide an overview of the behaviors and tools that have proven successful for individuals who have achieved lasting success in kicking the smoking habit and leading healthier lives.

The behaviors and tools that are consistently observed in those successful in achieving lasting results include the following:

Make the decision to quit and plan a date or time frame that is optimal for you to quit. When individuals do not lay out a plan for quitting many times they are not mentally prepared and encounter episodes of stress that may derail their plans to quit. Thinking of a date or time that would work for you in advance of quitting can help you maintain your stride to achieving your goal, and eliminate any life distractions that may potentially derail your success.

Incorporate a Nicotine Replacement Program (NRP). Incorporating a NRP assists you in overcoming the physical aspects of nicotine dependence. Nicotine replacement combined with behavioral changes that address the psychological component of smoking more than double your chances of success.

Involve friends and family to help you achieve your goal. Enlisting the assistance of your family and friends can provide you with a wonderful support structure. If you plan to quit and let others know they can be there to provide a pep talk when needed, or help change your focus during times of temptation.

Find a substitute habit. For many smokers part of the smoking habit is the hand to mouth motion. Suggestions for lessening the “withdrawal” from this physical motion include eating sugarless candy, chewing sugarless gum, drinking water, and eating fruit or other healthy snacks like popcorn, nuts or raisins.

Avoid temptation. During the first few days of quitting, it is suggested that you change your routine to avoid situations where you would regularly smoke. For instance going to a bar within your first few days of quitting may not be the best idea.

Maintain a positive attitude. Even when temptation is everywhere and you possibly give in to it by smoking, put the episode behind you and look toward executing your plan to quit and achieving your goal.

Reward yourself. Make certain to recognize your accomplishments on a regular basis by rewarding yourself. Buy yourself something, attend a concert or movie, go out to dinner… Rewards build your confidence and self esteem. They may also provide you with the added benefit of stress relief.

Seek advice. In the event you feel you require added support, there are many organizations you may turn to for beneficial and uplifting advice. You may contact Consumer Health Digest to get additional information on organizations that provide advice and support.

By implementing all or a combination of the previously mentioned keys to success you can achieve your goal to quit smoking and lead a healthier life. The benefits to quitting are endless! Within eight hours of quitting, the carbon monoxide levels in your blood drops to normal. Two weeks to three months after quitting your circulation improves and your lung function increases.

Your cancer risk drops with every year of not smoking. Three years after quitting your heart attack risk drops to the same level as non-smokers. Additionally, you’ll have fresher smelling breath, better skin and complexion, food tastes better, and you’ll save lots of money!

While a large number of people are successful at quitting smoking without a Nicotine Replacement Plan, most people are unsuccessful on the first try. In fact, many individuals who do not use a Nicotine Replacement Plan require several attempts at quitting prior to achieving long term success. A Nicotine Replacement Plan assists by reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms, which 70% to 90% of smokers indicate are the primary obstacles hindering successful smoking cessation.