Kicking the Habit: How to Choose a Quit Date

Congratulations! You've decided to quit smoking. Now you just need to decide when. Many smoking cessation programs suggest that the first step to quitting is choosing a quit date. But how do you make that choice? Does when you quit have an impact on how successful you'll be?

If you're ready to make the commitment, here are some things to think about when choosing your quit date.

Choose to quit within the next several weeks. This will give you time to prepare yourself, but not enough time to change your mind.

1. Give yourself time to heal if you've experienced a recent loss or traumatic event. The grieving process is hard work. It can drain your energy and affect your ability to concentrate. The stress after a trauma or loss will likely increase your urge to smoke, too.
2. If you are facing a stressful event, such as marriage, buying a home or graduating from college, wait a while. Stress will probably make you want to smoke more often. And your focus is going to be on your big event, not on quitting. You are more likely to absently reach for a cigarette when your mind is somewhere else. The fewer distractions you have, the more likely you are to succeed.
3. When making your decision, try to pick a date that holds special meaning for you. Is there a day that holds unique meaning in your life? Would you like to link the day you quit to a special event? Some people choose a random date, but others prefer to pick a birthday, anniversary or some other special day. Others opt for a more symbolic choice, such as the Great American Smokeout, Independence Day or New Year's Day.
4. If you smoke at work, consider quitting on a weekend. When you return to your job on Monday, you'll already be enjoying the benefits of being smoke-free for two days.

Stay focused

Write your quit date on your calendar where you can see it every day. Don't come up with excuses to wait. Stay committed to your plan.

Choosing a plan

If you haven't done so already, work with your doctor to choose the smoking cessation plan that is best for you. You may decide to go cold turkey or use nicotine gum, the patch or some other option. Whatever you choose, take some time to prepare yourself mentally for the challenge ahead. The more prepared you feel, the better your chances will be of kicking butts for good.