Congratulations on making the decision to quit smoking! As you are getting ready to make this change, try to keep in mind the reasons you why you want to quit.
If you are not sure, ask yourself these questions:
- What do I dislike about smoking?
- How is smoking affecting my health?
- How will my life get better when I quit?
Write down the reasons that resonate with you, and keep them somewhere that you will see every day. When you are having a craving or experiencing withdrawal, your list can help motivate you to stick with quitting and to quit for good.
Your Family
Quitting smoking is beneficial for your own health and the health of your loved ones. Maybe you want to quit to help protect your family from the dangers of second-hand smoke. Maybe you are thinking about your kids: it takes a lot of strength to quit smoking, and seeing you quit can set a great example for them.
Saving Money
Quitting smoking can really lead to a richer life! Tobacco products are expensive, and saving money can be a great motivator to help you quit or stay tobacco-free. You can even plan something to treat yourself to once you have enough money saved.
Your Friends
When you quit smoking, you will start to feel better physically and will likely have more energy to do the things you love with friends and family. You will also be saving money that you can spend on fun things with your friends and loved ones!
Your Appearance
Quitting smoking will make you feel better physically and can also have some benefits on your appearance. Your skin, nails, and teeth will look and feel healthier, and your clothes and car will not smell like smoke.
Health Care Provider Recommended
Your reason for quitting may be influenced by someone else in your life, whether it is a family member, partner, or your health care provider. It can be difficult to hear that you should quit smoking for your health, but if you have, try to use it to motivate yourself, and remember all of the supportive people in your life who are cheering you on.
Other Reasons
Quitting smoking is a very personal decision - maybe you have a different reason for wanting to quit or stay quit. Maybe you want to get better at the sport you are playing, or you have a personal goal you are trying to achieve.