I have served as a dentist for over 17 years. All of that time has been in beautiful Bountiful, Utah. During that time I have met many wonderful people. Unfortunately, some of them have developed a smoking addiction, or habit. I cannot recall a single patient that smoked that wanted to keep smoking. They all wanted to quit. In honor of those wanting to quit I recommend trying the following six steps to quit smoking (we might call it “Your Success Plan”).
Step 1: Have a Plan
Now that you have made up your mind to quit smoking, set a date and develop a plan. There are free online tools at smokefree.gov, or call this toll-free number, 1-800 QUIT-NOW, to help you succeed. Download an app to track your progress.
Step 2: Don’t Go It Alone
It will be easier to quit smoking if you have support from family and friends. Let them know you’ve decided to quit, ask for their support, and tell them specifically what they can do to help. Spend time with people who want you to succeed. Talk to friends who have quit and ask for their advice.
Step 3: Stay Busy
Replace your smoking habit with a healthy habit like exercise. Make plans for dinner or a movie with non-smoking friends. Instead of smoking, chew sugarless gum—it keeps your mouth busy and helps prevent cavities, too.
Step 4: Avoid Smoking Triggers
Stay away from people, places and things that tempt you to smoke. Some common triggers include stress, alcohol, coffee, and hanging out with people who smoke. Throw out cigarettes, lighters, and ashtrays, and go to places where smoking isn’t allowed.
Step 5: Reward Your Accomplishments
Quitting is hard. And, every hour or day you go without a cigarette is an achievement. Take it hour by hour, and reward yourself for small successes. With all the money you save on cigarettes, you can treat yourself to a stress-relieving massage or a pedicure!
Photo by Fried Dough 
