While quitting tobacco often provides many people more “free time”, it is common for many to begin making plans for other lifestyle changes, such as eating more healthfully, working out, or trying to clean/organize their living space after quitting. This may work for some people as it gives them something to focus on.
But, it can also be beneficial when quitting smoking, vaping, or chewing tobacco, as changes to your lifestyle and way of doing things, are all part of this process. And, when you work hard to make changes in one area of your life, that commitment and determination (combined with the results!) often spill over into other areas of your life.
But…keep in mind that quitting tobacco is HARD! And staying quit is HARD! Perhaps adding more to your to-do list on top of what you are already trying to do may not be helpful. So, how can we reach that “middle ground” here?
When it comes to replacement behaviors or things to occupy our time after quitting, it may be helpful to plan for things you either already enjoy or feel you might enjoy doing. If you don’t enjoy exercising, and you plan on exercising to cope with cravings, then you might find yourself in a tough spot following quitting.
Have a plan and a list of things to do that are reasonable and take minimal effort to get started. Plan to do fun things that you enjoy! Keep in mind that you are taking a big step, and working hard to change a lot of habits with quitting, so it’s important to set yourself up for success.
Change is sustainable when it’s done at a pace that you find both challenging AND doable. So, if you are not currently exercising regularly now, rather than telling yourself that you are going to get to that 45-minute cycling class at the gym 3 times a week; perhaps start with 1-2 gym visits a week, beginning with some gentle yoga or a 20-minute walk on the treadmill and build from there!
Or, start with organizing a drawer or two in your home before tackling your entire closet. Being successful with these smaller goals will help you build the confidence to attempt the larger goals later. While making quitting tobacco your priority is paramount, how you begin slowly adding in these other lifestyle changes is a fine balance, and only you can figure out where that balance is for yourself.
What are some activities you plan to incorporate into your new tobacco-free lifestyle? And, how might you “start small” as you set these goals for yourself?
