How to Quit Smoking: What Works for Me May Work for You

Smoking is one of the dirtiest, expensive habits out there. Depending on which state you're in, cigarettes can go for over $5 before taxes. When gas is reaching the same price as cigarettes, it's a habit that can cost a lot of money.

I haven't been smoking for a long time, almost a year. I'm only 22 years of age and realized I shouldn't have started in the first place. It's true what they say, sometimes it only takes one cigarette to get you hooked.

I began smoking when I was hanging out with some friends having a few beers. I was offered one and said "oh what the hell!" As I was smoking it, I started to feel sick. Of course she smoked Marlboro reds, which are quite strong. I went back inside of the house and ran to the bathroom and got sick. However, that didn't stop me from smoking more.

Looking back, I regret that decision. It has cost me a lot of money and at times has made me feel not so well. I was up to about a pack a day. I'm also a singer and a former gymnast. I should have known better. It will affect my everyday health and how strong my vocal cords are.

So I've decided I'm quitting. I've found the most unsuccessful method for me to quit is quitting cold turkey. I found myself wanting to smoke even more because it was always on my mind. I'd go for hours, sometimes even a day without a cigarette. However, I would cave and go buy a pack and my body would make sure I caught up with my pack a day routine.

I haven't tried any patch or gum to help me stop. But I did discover a lot of my addiction at this point in the smoking game is psychological. A lot of times it gives me something to do and I smoke out of boredom. Or I may smoke more particularly if it's a social gathering. Other times I smoke when I get overly stressed.

Instead of smoking at what averages out to be about a cigarette an hour, I am finding other alternatives to occupying my mind. Though my body may crave nicotine and any other added substance in tobacco, when I get a craving, I simply do something else. Of course I am still smoking, but finding other activities has helped keep my mind off the craving and allows me to smoke less throughout the day.