Breaking the smoking habit can be helped by stop smoking techniques, by helping make the quit smoking decision yourself. Making an honest attempt to quit helps you believe in the benefits of giving up smoking.

There are stages in changing behavior according to Stages of Change Model, and furthermore, in the pre-contemplation stage, the smoker is not convinced in giving up smoking, so, he doesn’t think about it seriously.

After the pre-contemplation stage, the smoker considers quitting but isn’t yet ready to make the step. This stage is called the preparation stage when the smoker is serious about quitting and may have a plan.

The action stage is next, and lasts for about 6 months, and during this time the smoker quits smoking. Afterwards comes the maintenance stage with a period of 6 months to 5 years after quitting, because the ex-smoker is aware of the danger of starting to smoke again.

Having a plan and deciding a date when you want to quit helps if you want to quit smoking. The date can be a random one, a birthday or anniversary.

Because most smokers like to quit abruptly, it doesn’t mean it’s the best way. Some give up smokes in stages by simply reducing progressively the number of cigarettes they smoke every day. You can tell everyone about your intention and making a plan about nicotine replacement therapy, because in this way you prepare for the big day.

Keeping yourself active and drinking lots of fluids also helps on the day you give up smoking. It’s important to dispose of all cigarettes, ash trays, and lighters, to avoid alcohol and situations where you may smoke. If you want to, you can commence counseling sessions and nicotine replacement therapy.

Even years after you quit you may face strong urges to smoke. It’s important to learn from your experience and not lose heart even if you revert to smoking. Also, prepare to make a stronger attempt the next time.