Right Before You Quit
As you leave for a trip, you pack your bags, make sure you have your tickets, and turn off the lights before you leave. Before you start your quitting journey, you’ll want to prepare so things will go smoothly and you can focus on your progress.
Things to do right before you quit
Gather supplies for your quit date.
- Have your nicotine replacements or other quitting medications ready. And remember, some of the non-nicotine medications require you to start taking them up to two weeks before your quit date.
- Keep a refillable water bottle around. Try one with a straw! It makes getting a cleansing drink easier. It'll also help keep your stomach full. An empty stomach can sometimes set off cravings. Carry your water bottle for at least the first week after you quit.
- Buy things you can chew on: Carrot sticks, celery, toothpicks, candy, gum. Keep it all as handy as you did your cigarettes. Having something in your mouth can make a huge difference!
- Get something to keep your hands busy. You could get a fidget toy or a squishy ball. Maybe you’d like to try something creative, like drawing or knitting. Or you could try jigsaw puzzles, a game on your phone, or a book of crosswords.
- Make a list of your “Reasons I Want To Quit.” Post copies of it around your house, car and workplace, or keep it as an easy-to-access note on your phone.
- Get something nice for your newly-cleaned home to keep it fresh. A scented candle, a green plant, or something else to mark the beginning of your quit.
Remember, the more things you do to prepare, the better off you'll be on quit day and beyond.