Topic Overview

What would motivate you to quit smoking? Take a moment to fill out the smoker's self-test. Be honest when you answer the questions. You may discover that you have more good reasons to quit than to continue using tobacco.

Decide if you agree with any of these statements.

_____It makes me uncomfortable to know that I am hooked on nicotine.

_____I dislike the way my hair, hands, teeth, clothes, and home look and smell.

_____I am concerned about how my smoking habit affects the health of my family and friends.

_____My opportunities for employment may be limited because I smoke.

_____I am concerned about the negative effects smoking may have on my sex life.

_____I worry that smoking may shorten my life.

_____I am embarrassed by the way other people look at me when I light a cigarette in a public place.

_____I could afford to buy more of the things I want if I didn't spend so much money on cigarettes.

_____I am (or would like to become) pregnant, but I'm worried about how my smoking habit might affect my baby.

_____I think others have a lower opinion of me because I smoke.

_____I wish I had more control over my smoking habit.

_____I worry about becoming a burden to my family if I get sick due to smoking.

Add any other concerns you have about smoking here:

Congratulations! If you agreed with any of the above statements, you've just created a list of reasons to quit smoking! Take a closer look at some of the issues that you indicated are of concern to you. Are any of them stronger or more meaningful to you than the reasons why you like to smoke?

Making a list of reasons to quit smoking is a good first step toward getting yourself motivated to quit smoking. Keep your list with you before you quit and for several weeks or months after you quit. Review it whenever you are struggling with the quitting process. Add to your list whenever another reason to quit occurs to you.