I can’t stand smoking. Seriously, I despise it. And I’m not just some outsider looking in—I’m a former smoker who once adored lighting up more than anything else. I was the one who insisted I’d never quit, no matter what anyone said. I didn’t need to hear their nonsense; I was the master of my own choices.
But smokers, it’s time to listen up. Just stop! Smoking isn’t cool anymore; that trend faded long ago. Once upon a time, you might have been the rebellious type flicking ashes out the window, but now? You just look foolish. Smoking is banned in countless restaurants and bars across the country. People want to enjoy their meals without being enveloped in smoke. Nothing screams fine dining like a dirty ashtray filled with remnants from the last gathering.
Look at Hollywood! The biggest stars aren’t puffing away on cigarettes anymore. Instead, they’re using herbal alternatives in shows like Mad Men, where the characters smoked like chimneys. Smoking is now a rated category, just like violence and nudity. If you see celebrities being chastised for taking a puff, it’s a clear sign that maybe you shouldn’t be doing it either.
I get it; you only smoke when you drink. But that’s a weak excuse. Did you know that combining smoking and drinking significantly raises your risk of oral and lung cancers? You’re aware of the dangers, yet you continue.
According to the CDC, “Cigarette smoking is responsible for more than 480,000 deaths per year in the United States, including more than 41,000 deaths resulting from secondhand smoke exposure.” That’s one in five deaths annually, or about 1,300 deaths every single day. Smokers, on average, die a decade earlier than nonsmokers. Imagine what you could accomplish with an extra 10 years—how many of your grandchildren’s games you could attend, or how many more cozy nights with your partner you could enjoy. Those moments matter far more than your nicotine fix.
If that doesn’t resonate, consider how much you’re spending. Want a reality check? I quit smoking 11 years ago after consuming about a pack and a half daily. I used the Smoke Free app to track my progress, and I was astounded to discover I’ve saved over $34,000! Seriously! That’s money I’ve invested in way better things than cigarettes.
And let’s not forget about the kids. I absolutely don’t want them to witness me with a cigarette in hand. How can you preach to your children about the dangers of smoking if you’re doing it right in front of them? It’s all about leading by example. And while we’re on the topic of kids, please don’t smoke around mine. Remember, secondhand smoke is responsible for 41,000 deaths annually in the U.S. Keep that to yourself.
If looking foolish, risking illness, and draining your wallet aren’t enough deterrents, smoking also ages you prematurely. Your skin becomes wrinkled and dull, and your teeth? Do you really want a nicotine-stained grin? I doubt it.
Please, I’m not trying to come off as superior. I understand how difficult it is to quit; I’ve been there. But doesn’t the prospect of dying feel way worse? Choosing to smoke means choosing to put your life at risk, leaving your loved ones behind to witness your decline. Think about that the next time you crave a cigarette. There are people who genuinely care about you. Can’t quit for yourself? Do it for them.
And really consider what you could do with that $34,000.
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Summary:
Smoking is an outdated habit that not only poses serious health risks but also drains your finances and negatively impacts your appearance. Former smokers can attest to the benefits of quitting, including improved health and financial savings. It’s time to reconsider the choice to smoke—not just for yourself but for the loved ones who care about you.
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