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Of all the things that a new year promises to be, it is also a great opportunity to improve one's lifestyle choices and to have a healthier attitude towards life. A New Year resolution that promises to be a life-changing one is to quit smoking.

"The start of the New Year is a terrific time for smokers to implement their plan to quit," said Norman H. Edelman, M.D., chief medical officer of the American Lung Association. "The benefits of a smoke-free lifestyle include improved overall health, economic benefits, and protecting loved ones from harmful secondhand smoke."

Statistics reveal that though a great resolution in itself, six out of ten smokers need repeated attempts to quit smoking. The American Lung Association suggests that with careful planning and by noting certain important points, one can get rid of the habit for good.

 The American Lung Association points out certain tips that have helped many smokers over the years to get rid of the habit:

1. Support Systems: It is often helpful when there is someone close by, such as a family member or a friend, who can support and give you much-needed encouragement during the process of quitting.

One can also reach out to online communities such as 'Freedom From Smoking' Online supported by the American Lung Association.

2. Pick a Date: Plan ahead and choose a date on the calendar by which you would quit and adhere to that by gathering the tools and medications you may need.

3. Physical Activity:  Daily exercising is a great supplement for quitting the habit of smoking. Added to that are the other health benefits such as weight reduction and increase in stamina. Walking is a great exercise that has proven to reduce the stress related to withdrawal of smoking habits.

4. Good Food and Proper Sleep: Proper nutrition to the body, drinking lots of water and the right amount of sleep are also extremely necessary to get rid of the habit.

5. Consult a Doctor or Pharmacist: Have a discussion with your doctor or pharmacist who can suggest various prescription medications that are available in the market to help you quit.

The 'Freedom From Smoking' group clinic program was started by the American Lung Association way back in 1981 and includes different evidence-based cessation techniques that can help to quit smoking. Very recently, the association also introduced the online version of the same program that can be availed at any time of the day.