Many people erroneously assume that all they need to do to quit smoking is to throw away their cigarettes, never to return. While such tactics may actually help, it really doesn't need to be quite that difficult. A number of strategies and smoking cessation aids exist that can ease the quit process.

Make the choice to not smoke at all. Do not convince yourself that smoking one cigarette will not hurt your good resolutions; one will soon turn into two, and all your hard work will be for nothing. Put the danger of smoking a single cigarette into perspective before you actually have to deal with that situation.

If you're attempting to cease smoking, you need to consider the different challenges you may face when you first stop smoking. Most people who fail to quit smoking, will do so within a few months of first quitting. You may be tempted to have a smoke if you are tired or feeling undue stress. Be vigilant about staying one step ahead of your smoking triggers.

Ask your doctor about the medication you can use. New innovations for giving up smoking appear regularly. There are many options in this area, including nicotine substitutes and anti-withdrawal medications. Consult your physician and see if they can point you in the direction of a product that can help you kick the habit forever.

Carry suckers or lollipops with you. If you are tempted to reach for a cigarette, opt for a lollipop. This will keep your hands busy, and help to reduce cravings. The candy part will also keep your mouth busy. You can stop your craving sooner by occupying your hands as well as your mouth.

If smoking at home, make sure to thoroughly clean the house, when quitting. Shampoo your upholstery and carpets, launder your curtains and drapes and wash your walls. Your entire house will be refreshed, and the stale smoke odor will not linger around to remind you of smoking.

As soon as you decide to quit smoking, join a support group. It can be helpful to you to speak to people who know what you're going through, who also can identify with the physical and emotional strain you may be experiencing. Having a support system can be invaluable. Support groups can be found in many places, such as your church, rec center or college, ask around.

You don't have to go through this alone. Inform your family and friends of your plan to quit, and accept their love, encouragement, and support as you fight your battle. An outside support group of former smokers can also help. Discussing how you feel with others who are experiencing the same difficulties can help you power through and beat smoking for good.

Get fit and have fun! Exercising can make quitting smoking much more attractive when you notice the immediate improvement of lung capacity. Getting some regular exercise can also help you to avoid the age-old complication of weight gain. The endorphins released during exercising can fulfill your nicotine cravings to a certain extent.

Smoking cessation is one of the few times in your life that it's best to be a quitter! Quite a few people who have quit smoking made multiple attempts before achieving success. Take quitting one day at a time, and try to not smoke until you just can't take it any more. If you do relapse, set a new date to quit again. As you go, keep learning and making the quit last longer every time. In time, you'll go long enough that you don't feel the need to smoke again.

This article provides you with an overview of some of the most common and most effective techniques for stopping smoking. There may be days that you feel tempted to smoke but with the right kinds of techniques and support, you can do it by taking it one day at a time.