As anyone who has done it – or tried to – knows, it’s hard to live smoke-free. The task is not an easy one, but quitting is possible and is certainly worth the effort. If you’ve decided it’s time to kick the habit, employ these four tricks and tips to help you succeed.

Clean House

To help yourself live smoke-free, clean your house on your quit day. Throw away any cigarettes you have left. Dispose of cigarette lighters and ashtrays as well. Although none of us like to admit it, everyone who has tried to quit without cleaning house has seriously considered lighting an old butt they found in an ashtray. To increase your chances of success, get rid of all your smoking accessories and paraphernalia. Remember your car when cleaning, as well. Empty your car of all your smoking reminders and consider adding an air freshener.

Talk to Your Doctor

Your doctor may be able to help you quit with prescription medications. Some medications reduce withdrawal symptoms while others make cigarette smoking unpleasant or unsatisfying. Your doctor can also recommend nicotine replacement therapies such as nicotine gum or patches to help you step down your tobacco use gradually. Many people are much more successful with nicotine replacement and reduction than they are trying to quit cold turkey.

Tell People

When you’ve committed to a start date, tell your friends and family that you plan to quit and when. It’s much easier to lose your resolve and push your quit date back if no one knows your plans. Telling loved ones that you’re quitting allows them to offer you support and helps hold you accountable.

Try Vaping

A study conducted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)in 2017 showed that more smokers tried quitting with e-cigarettes than did with nicotine patches or nicotine gums. These results are not surprising given that vaping incorporates multiple aspects of cigarette smoking.

Vapers can choose to use liquid that is free of nicotine or opt to gradually step down their nicotine levels. With or without nicotine, vaping gives smokers something to do with their hands and mouth, helping to satisfy the habitual behaviors associated with smoking. Some smokers feel that this greatly increases their odds of success, satisfying cravings in a way that nicotine patches and gums cannot.

With these tips and a compelling reason for quitting, you can successfully quit smoking for good. If you do stumble along the way, forgive yourself quickly and get back on track. You may have a few difficult moments along the way, but they will all fade away the day you realize you’ve become a non-smoker for life.