Want to quit smoking? It’s possible that you’re going through a laundry list of excuses for why it’s too hard to kick the habit for good.

But before you talk yourself out of this life-enhancing decision, consider the following advice:

Excuse #1: I'll gain weight if I quit.

You can counteract this risk by exercising and eating healthy. While some people can gain an average of less than 10 pounds after quitting, many others don’t gain any weight at all.

Excuse #2: Smoking relieves my stress.

Smoking might be the source of all that stress in the first place. After all, it causes an increased heart rate and high blood pressure. Exercise and deep breathing can help you relieve stress in a much more effective – and healthier – way.

Excuse #3: Smoking gives me something to do.

There’s no shortage of activities you can take part in during your free time. Try taking a stroll or going to the gym instead of occupying your time with cigarettes.

Excuse #4: I’ve smoked for most of my life, so it won’t make a difference if I quit now.

No matter how long you've been a smoker, quitting now will prove beneficial to your health. Your breathing will become less labored, circulation will improve, and your lungs will get stronger.

Excuse #5: It’s too hard to quit.

We know it’s a challenging journey, but more and more people are kicking the habit for good with the help of cessation programs, support groups and medications.

Call 877-44U-QUIT (877-448-7848) or visit smokefree.gov for more information and ideas.

You can also attend one of the Watson Clinic Foundation’s monthly Tools to Quit classes, which are held in the boardroom of the Watson Clinic Cancer & Research Center. Locate the next class online at WatsonClinic.com/Events.

Sources: American Lung Association; National Cancer Institute