We are dramatically understating the true cost of smoking in this example. The actual price of cigarettes is minor compared to everything else that smokers face over their lifetime, such as significant health expenses and higher life insurance premiums. 

A pack of cigarettes costs roughly $10 depending where you are. But, there are studies that show that every pack of cigarettes comes with an additional $35 in healthcare related expenses that you will incur in your lifetime. 

The good news is that the percent of people in the US who smoke has been steadily falling. Now, about 12% of adults regularly smoke, but 25 years ago this number was 35%. Even with that said, smoking remains the leading cause of preventable disease, disability, and death in the US.

So, what do you do? If you do smoke, try your best to stop. Quitting smoking is the equivalent of giving yourself a massive pay raise and better quality of life. And this isn’t just about smoking. It’s about bad habits that seem small but actually add up over time and will hurt you in the long run.

As always, reminding you to build wealth by following the two PFC rules: 1.) Live below your means and 2.) Invest early and often.‎

‎-Vivi & Shane