Preparing To Quit

So, you're tired of smelling like smoke, sounding like you're coughing up a lung, and sporting a brownish-yellow smile? You've decided you want to take control of your nicotine addiction? You're ready to quit for yourself and for everyone you care about?

Great. Now you're ready for the next step: preparing to quit.

Preparing to quit may sound like a weird idea. What is there to prepare for when you just want to stop doing something?

People who quit smoking or chewing tobacco often have to plan their strategy in advance and get ready psychologically. Few people can just throw away their pack of cigarettes or their tin of snuff and say, "That's it. I'm finished." But if you want to quit cold turkey, go for it. Keep in mind that there are many medicines and local programs that can help you kick the habit.

The reality is, very few people stay quit the first time they try. However, you are more likely to succeed if you: