Today is the American Cancer Society's Great American Smokeout. The Smokeout was started 36 years ago to encourage people to stop smoking. And this is why my Life-Cise Daily Tip for today is You have the power to choose.


It's a choice. It's not an easy choice. But it is a choice. And you do have the power to choose.

Or rather, I guess I should say it's a series of choices, because it's not a choice you will make just once. You will continue to have to make the choice. You will choose every day - many times. Each time you would normally reach for a cigarette you have a choice to make.

But you do have the power to make a better/healthier choice.

The ACS and other orgs. offer help. There are plans and tips to help you.

If you still smoke, I hope you will use this day to choose something better. Choose to quit or choose to make a plan to quit. It is the very best choice you can make for a healthier life.

I admit that I don't really know what this choice is like. I have never been a smoker. Well, there were 2 weeks in 7th grade when I tried to smoke because I thought it was cool. For the life of me, I can't understand how I ever thought it was cool. But, I was 12 - what did I know? I wasn't very good at it; I really kind of hated it. So I made a big point of "quitting".

So, no, I don't really understand the pull. But I've seen very many friends struggle with quitting. And from them I know it comes down to a choice. It's not easy, but it is a choice.

It's up to you. You have the power to choose.

Julie