Nobody wants a false start when they stop smoking. After all, if you choose to tell friends and family – for supportive accountability – you’ll want to follow through. Of course for some, even thinking about that pressure can make it seem hard to even get started!
While there will never be a “perfect time” to stop smoking, here are some things you may want to think about as you plan your quit date:
- Give yourself enough time to plan, but not so much that you talk yourself out of it. Choosing a date about 2 weeks in the future seems to be good for most people.
- Wait for major stressors to pass. Trying to stop the week your whole family comes over to the house for a special occasion might not be the best time or would require extra relapse prevention planning on your part.
- What would be the best day of the week to quit for you? Consider the pros and cons between a work day that is busy and full of distractions and a weekend day that is more relaxing.
- Some people like to stop smoking on a special day, such as someone’s birthday or an anniversary. Your Quit Day will likely be one that you’ll always remember.
- Get ready by talking to your support people to enlist their help. Make some fun plans to look forward to during that first week tobacco-free, and remember to think positive.
While thinking about quitting can be stressful, try not to let fear keep you from trying. Stopping smoking is a process, not an event. Be kind to yourself and take it one step at a time. Learn from your mistakes, and don’t give up. Every time you try, you are a step closer to a smoke-free life.
The Right Time to Quit is the Right Time to Quit
Is It The Right Time To Quit?
