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It can be very difficult to quit smoking—that's why so many people try over and over to make smoking cessation stick. But many quit smoking success stories come from those who have taken the process step-by-step, made firm and clear goals, and started over if they slipped during their smoking cessation program.

There are two key elements that can help you kick the habit for good: First, get inspired. And then formulate a plan, one that you can stick to even when the going gets tough.

A Step by Step Process

"Quitting smoking is easy," Mark Twain once said. "I've done it a thousand times."

How many times have you tried to put down the pack, only to pick it up again? Rest assured that you're not alone. Smoking cessation is a process, not a one-time event.

How do you do it? This six-week plan has worked for others, and it can work for you, too:

• Pay attention to smoking. Focus on when you light up and why. Keep a record of the time, what you were doing, and how you felt. At the end of a week's time, you should see patterns begin to emerge.
• Change your routine. Do you always smoke in the car? Do you jump for the smoke break at work? Slowly eliminate those parts of your routine and make it less convenient to smoke.
• Set a quit date. Start the countdown to your date by buying fewer cigarettes, pushing back the time of your first smoke every day, and gradually throwing out the things you need to smoke,, such as ashtrays and matches.
• Take your quit week seriously. When it's time to quit, don't expect it to be easy. You will have cravings, irritability, and trouble sleeping. Remember those things won't last long.
• Embrace the good! After one week of not smoking, your lungs will be clearer. You will be able to taste your food and enjoy good scents. Focus on those things when a craving hits.
• Get determined. No matter how badly you want a cigarette, avoid it. The cravings will go away, and the need to take a drag will decrease. You just have to hang in there!

If you have tried to quit again and again and you just can't seem to stick with the program, remember something George Sanayana pointed out: "Habit is stronger than reason." Your reasonable desire to quit smoking eventually takes precedence, but patience with yourself is key.

About our Savvy Advisor: Shannon Dauphine

Shannon Dauphin was diagnosed with diabetes over a decade ago. Since then she has married a fellow diabetic and together, they learned how to deal with glucose readings, insulin, and healthy diets. Shannon is a featured contributor to the "Diabetes: Developing a Support Network" series which explores the concept that healthier lives result from connections with people you can trust.