Motivation to Quit

You’ll need willpower to keep away from cigarettes or snuff, especially within the first few weeks of quitting. But you can retrain your brain to crave the things that are really important to you—like a strong body and a healthy family—instead of craving smoking or chewing tobacco.

Think about your loved ones. You’re quitting for yourself and you’re quitting for those you care about.
Think about your wallet. You save money when you quit smoking or chewing tobacco. Figure out how much cash you’re saving and buy yourself something cool each week that you stay quit—like a video game, CD, or DVD.
Spend time on this Web site and others every day, reading about the benefits of quitting tobacco and how others are dealing with the challenge.
Take stock of how good you feel now that you’ve given up smoking or chewing tobacco. No more stink-breath. No more junk in your lungs. No more heartburn or acid reflux.
Find a positive thought to keep you going. You might want to write it on a small piece of paper and keep it in your pocket or wallet. Some ideas:

I need the energy and stamina to keep up with my PT.
I want my little sister to grow up to be like me…tobacco free.
I don’t want my closet stinking of smoke anymore.
I have to quit if I want a chance with that cute girl (or guy) who thinks smoking is gross.
I survived basic training; I can quit smoking again.
If Uncle Joe could quit smokeless tobacco, so can I.

Talk to someone. Call one of the support people in your quit plan for a pep talk when you need one.

Keep in mind that nicotine withdrawal won’t last forever, although at first it may feel like it. Most nicotine cravings go away in 3 to 5 minutes.

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