I haven't smoked a cigarette in 2 1/2 weeks. Cold Turkey. No problems so far. And I've smoked pretty much straight away for about 8 years.
For me, it isa matter of coming to terms with what I can control. I'm an addictive personality par excellence, so a lot of it is just understanding how my mind works in the addiction process.
What I'm here to tell you is this: nicotine addiction varies between people, and some may find it harder than others to quit, but as an addict (in more than just the nicotine sense), I can tell you that if you DECIDE that you will not pick up one more cigarette and put it in your mouth, you won't do so. Now will that be easy? Most likely not, and sometimes harder than !@#$ all to the point that it seems impossible. But, it can be done. This is not my first time quitting something cold turkey, and it can happen.
But, as others have said, if using some aid helps you quit, makes the transition smoother, etc., then by all means- fire away. Whatever works is the mantra, when it comes down to it.