Quitting Buddies

Quitting Smoking Is Often Easier If You Don't Have To Go It Alone

      Quitting smoking with a quitting buddy is similar to alcoholics anonymous for drinkers.  It is simply a support system of one or more people like yourself that are trying to quit smoking.

      A quitting buddy can be as simple as you and a friend or family member deciding to quit smoking at the same time.  The idea is that you can give each other support and motivation during times that you may feel like having a cigarette.  Another added incentive is that you now have to keep a promise to your quitting buddy to not smoke.  A promise to others is often easier to keep that a solely to yourself.

      A quitting buddy can also be a support group of many smokers that are trying to quit.  These groups are often conducted in person much like an AA meeting would be.  However you can also find similar communities at online message boards and even those that are willing to help VIA telephone or email.  Some ways are more comfortable and convenient for variouse people and it doesn't really matter which way you choose to go.

Ideas For Quitting Buddies:

• Quitting buddies often check in with each other at the end of each day to have a continued sense of connection through the process.  You may even want to speak with your quitting buddy more frequently for the first few days sometimes.
• You should also have a way to get in touch with your buddy if you have a craving come on.
• It is often good to smoke your last cigarette with your quitting buddy and make it out as somewhat of a "ceremonial last smoke".

      It doesn't really matter what type of system you set up for you and your quit buddy.  The only important thing is that a quitting buddy may be the last push that will help you finally quit smoking for good.