Water baptism is used by some individuals as an outward sign or proof that person has dedicated their life to Christ.
Your actual baptism, however, is the second you awaken to realize your need to learn and live by what God sent his son to teach you. (
Mat 17:5;
John 7:15-18) Though it may take some time to build faith causing you to choose dedication, (
Mark 13:10 & 13) you will never be the same, starting from the second you have the realization of who Christ is. That awareness will set you on a course to choose or reject faith. (
Deu 30:15-16 &
Deu 30:19-20) Be cautious: Most water baptisms done today are not really a sign of the person's dedication to Christ, but of a dedication to some religious sect of people!