I used a tape(VCR) that instructed me to repeat to myself everytime I desired a cig. "I would rather breath than smoke." haven't desired a cig since '88... Have not been able to find that tape since...

I smoke and don't want to give up

I smoke and don't want to give up

In the same boat.
I've heard good things about laser acupuncture, although that's something I've yet to try.
A new physician suggested replacing it with another habit, like exercise, corny I know but.

Less optimum ways to cut down: sleep binge- knock yourself out. Get the flu, get pneumonia . BTDT with all 3. I quit well for 2 months once after the flu, the first days of being messed up were the worst withdrawal days that I was too sick to notice.
Chantix helped me a lot, to cut down but realize it's not for everyone. When i first took it after about 3 weeks began the technicolor unpleasant nightmares, but that was 10 years ago & the script I have now isn't laid out the same, also either my chemistry changed or the formula for Chantix did because it doesn't affect me quite as severely now. I'll even break one in 1/2 just to cut down.

The research shows f you really enjoy it you probably won't be able to quit. Try just cutting down first then when the number you have reduced it to becomes normal, try reducing it again.

What's the hardest part for you? This is strictly anecdotal, but for me the hardest part about quitting was getting those sudden urges to smoke at certain times of the day. I'd spend about 15 minutes or so nearly going crazy, and I tried to fill that time with something else, like eating junk food or something. For the most part, just staying busy is what probably helped the most for me. Other quitters have told me that it was only their willpower that enabled them to quit. It's a lot of suffering to go through, and the cravings never truly stop.