Quitting smoking has given many people better health, freedom, and confidence.
Why should you quit now?
The truth is that most smokers want to quit. Common reasons why smokers want to quit are to be in control of their lives and to be free from cigarettes. If you quit, you can tell yourself:
- I will be proud of myself.
- I will have more energy and focus.
- I will feel more in control of my life.
- I will have more money to spend.
- I will feel more physically fit.
- I will be more attractive.
- I will save time by not taking cigarette breaks, buying cigarettes, or searching for a lighter.
Within just a few weeks of quitting you will start to feel better—more energized, more relaxed, more confident, and proud that you were able to quit.
After you stop smoking, you will have new freedom. Find new, better ways to use the moments without smoking. You can:
- Look for new work challenges.
- Take a class and learn something new.
- Start a new hobby.
- Plant that garden.
- Volunteer at your local hospital or a charity.
Former smokers have done all sorts of things with their newfound time:
- Lisa found her true passion for cooking and started her own catering company.
- Mary knits hats, mittens, and blankets for her grandchildren, and joined a walking group.
- James started playing guitar again and now plays in a smokefree band.
These are just a few ideas about what you can do with the additional time you have after you stop smoking. Think back over your reasons for quitting. Imagine yourself looking and feeling better as a nonsmoker. What will you do?
Video: Lisa on preparing for her quit date
This story was inspired by documented personal experiences of former smokers and smokers trying to quit, and is portrayed by an actor.