Kicking the smoking habit is not easy but can be done. The addictive nature of nicotine is one of the difficult hurdles. Commit to the decision by making a plan to stop. Set a particular day to quit. Mark it on your calendar. Tell your family and friends so they can offer support. Make a list of reasons why you want to quit. Whatever your reasons, this list will provide motivation as you work on getting accustomed to life without cigarettes. Throw away all your cigarettes, lighters, and ashtrays.

Take it one day at a time. Prepare yourself mentally and physically. During the first 10 days you may feel tired, irritable, and develop headaches or a cough. You may also have problems concentrating while your body goes through nicotine withdrawal. These symptoms usually only last about two weeks.

To help alleviate the symptoms, drink plenty of water and exercise to flush the nicotine out of your system. Get plenty of rest and avoid drinks with caffeine and alcohol. Keep a busy schedule. Reward yourself at the end of the day. Depending on your particular circumstances, your doctor may prescribe nicotine chewing gum or a nicotine patch to help you stop smoking.

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