I had to switch attention - each time I had a desire to smoke I run until there was no more. And it showed me immediate changes in the body, there was white sludge getting out of my lungs. First week was the hardest, second much easier, at its end I was so sure in success I've shared with friend. I said no one before to reduce pressure of failing.
After three weeks there was no craving, just easy fighting of occasional customs - like getting out of home, before bad, etc.
Several weeks later and food was never as delicious before. It was all cardboard by comparison. I still do not understand smoking in restaurant - just get any junk food, it is same.
Three month later was spring. Smells all around, it was another world, so beautiful.
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Conventional wisdom is a lie, echo chamber. You will not hear my story in smoking crowds - I'm not there. Two of my friends quit smoking the day I've shared my success at the end of the second week. One started again after several years - depression and working conditions - it does not help, just a feeling "no there to fall deeper". There is.
My interpretation of why this worked is, that from previously failed attempts (2 or 3 maybe), I had changed too much, and thrown away the packs and lighters.. I'd suddenly sit and think "that car.. it really needs refueling RIGHT. NOW. don't it?" and I'd drive to the gas station and when paying for gas, I'd say, as is tradition "and a pack of north state and a ligther please".. Brain finding a million excuses to go out and having to resist at those weak moments, was hard..
But having the pack always there made it a constant active choice of lower intensity rather than a more intense recurrent impulse.
Quitting is not a result, it is an effort you make through your life. It can be pretty easy for some, others need to focus a bit more. Build a strong determination to quit and have a positive outlook on life and your decision. The latter drastically affects how you experience cravings.
It becomes natural after a while, but if one can start smoking out of nowhere, starting this habit again is not less probable. Quitting is a continuous effort, but it is worth it.