I have told a few friends about this, and the ones that hang out with me regularly know, but a month ago today, I quit smoking cigarettes. I had smoked for over 4 years, beginning in late March of 2003. I wanted to wait a month before announcing this because I did not know if I'd be able to stick with it.
Honestly, I still enjoyed them and never had a desire to quit, but one day I just decided I had had enough. I gave the half pack of Newports I had left to my friend Aaron and I haven't touched one since.
The main reason I quit was for the sake of my workouts. I have put a ton of effort into gaining muscle in the past year plus, and I wanted to be able to push myself to the next level. Cigarettes worked against that. Also, I'm sure it will help my singing voice, and music is a major interest of mine.
Most people who quit or attempt to claim that it is very difficult for them, but honestly, it has been fairly easy for me. I have not really had any physical cravings. I had mental cravings for a while, but those have passed.
The only adverse effect I have experienced has been trouble sleeping (even more so than before) but it's a small price to pay. All I have to say is, thank God for caffeine.
So that's it. I just wanted to make that announcement. If anyone else needs help quitting, feel free to contact me and I will help in any way that I can.