Lynda,
I actually did it that way this time in conjunction with nicotrol inhalers, a smoking cessation class and the Ex. I'm so happy I found this website. Getting encouraging text messages everyday leading up to my quit date made a big difference. I actually looked forward to receiving them. Still being smoke free for 45 days, I credit to the support I've received on this site. Reach out for help when you need it. These wonderful Ex'ers saved my quit several times. And take the daily pledge each day committing not to smoke. It has really helped me stay smoke free one day at a time.
Here is how I cut down. For a week prior to my quit date, I reduced the number of cigarettes each day. But I was on a strict schedule - never deviated. One every hour, then 2 hours, 3 hours, etc. until I was down to 3 cigarettes on my last day. It really worked for me this time. By the time I actually quit, I had eliminated those habitual cigarettes tied to some routine. I smoked each cigarette very purposefully. Didn't let my mind wander off to the days events, etc. That's how I'd end up smoking more than one in the past!
Hope this helps. We each have to follow our own path, but there's lots of good information and advice here to be successful.
