Make Sure You Have a Good Support System

If you’re like most people, you may decide you’re not going to tell anyone that you’ve decided to stop smoking. You may think, well, if I fail, it won’t be so embarrassing if no one knows. But by doing this, you’re making it easier to give up on quitting. You’re also denying yourself a powerful tool — support from friends and family. Remember, having the right support around you can increase your chances of quitting smoking successfully. So why make stopping smoking harder than it has to be? It’s time to Re-Learn Support.

Most people will be happy to hear you’re quitting smoking. Tell the people around you who matter the most — the ones you know will be supportive and positive. This is the group you want to surround yourself with during the coming weeks as you prepare to quit smoking and once you’ve stopped smoking. (And if you’re pregnant, don’t forget to tell your doctor about your plans to quit, since he or she can be a good source of support.)