Obviously you can't keep it secret for long, and not at all to people you interact with daily. But I'd rather not broadcast it to everyone I know. Or even bring it up to anyone. If someone asks, I'll let them know I've quit and ask them not to make a big deal about it.
This is the 6th time I've quit. Four of the times I told everyone, and was smoking again within weeks or days. The time I quit for 11 months, I didn't tell a soul. I'm not saying I started again those other times because I told people. But I find the less I'm reminded of what I'm doing, the easier it is for me. Just now, a well-meaning co-worker asked me when I returned from lunch how I was holding up. Of course, she had to go on about how hard it was for her that first year, especially after having a meal, etc., etc. Gee thanks, I was actually doing OK until you brought this up. That interaction was bad enough. I really don't want my social media feeds and text messages reminding me all day long, no matter how well meaning.
Research supposedly says telling everyone is the best way. Not sure I agree. What are your experiences?
I just quit and I wasn't going to tell anyone for a while but I when I did I found out it helps. I have even gotten the few smoker friends I have left to think about quitting. Sometimes I feel if I don't hear about the challenges or even read about smoking it would be easier but I take it all in and just remind myself that I don't smoke any more and that is how I want it.
be honest with people tell them thanks for asking but I cannot talk about it, it makes it harder they will understand and if they don't you don't need them around you.
best wishes