text: Below is what I wrote to a similar question. My response was chosen as the best answer.\n\nQuitting smoking is not an easy thing to do, especially alone. The longer you've smoked, the harder it is going to be to kick the habit.\n\nQuitting is going to require the assistance / guidance of a support group. Friends, family, and colleagues are going to have to support you during this time.\n\nTrying to quit cold turkey usually doesn't work. Using tools such as Nicotene Gum or a patch will help to reduce cravings. Eating carrot or celery sticks will help with the or-al fixation associated with smoking.\n\nGetting help from your doctor is probably a good way to go as well. \n\nThe American Cancer Society provides some good information as does the Wikipedia. Tobacco Free California is also a good resource to get help.\n\nBottomline, start with a plan. Involve your friends and family, and decide what is going to work best for you.\n\nGood luck!