1. It’s Simple — Once You Get Past the Initial Hurdle

Initially, the thought of eliminating meat, dairy, and eggs felt overwhelming. What else could I eat?

The transition can be tough as it requires significant adjustments to your eating habits. Meat is often seen as a staple, and many cultures plan their meals around it, making its absence feel challenging.

However, once you commit, things become much more manageable. Prior to diving in, it's helpful to educate yourself about veganism, gather recipes, and stock up on vegan-friendly items.

The first few weeks may be challenging, but having easy recipes at your disposal can streamline your experience. You'll soon discover new ways to approach your meals and might even start experimenting more in the kitchen.

As time goes on, the process becomes increasingly natural. Your perspective shifts, and you no longer have to think about it — it becomes second nature.

2. It Can Be Affordable

While some aspects of veganism can be pricey, they don't have to be.

The so-called "vegan tax" may seem like a reality, but it's not an official term. Many vegan products carry a higher price tag due to limited demand and their classification as luxury items, like specialty snacks and meat alternatives.

Fortunately, there are plenty of "accidentally vegan" options that you can find among regular grocery items, such as dark chocolate, most breads, hummus, and even some snacks like Oreos.

It's worth noting that processed and convenience foods can often be harder to find and more costly than their non-vegan counterparts. Yet, a large part of your diet can consist of inexpensive staples like fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds.

For example, a simple dish of rice and beans served with greens and some root vegetables can be a nutritious, budget-friendly meal.

While you may indulge in vegan ice cream or nuggets occasionally, they don't have to be everyday staples. Moreover, whole foods tend to be more nutritious and economical, allowing you to save money while preparing healthier meals.

You’ll find that legumes are often cheaper than meat. Even though plant-based milks may be pricier than dairy, overall expenses can still be lower.

Be prepared to spend more on convenience items, restaurant meals, and takeout, but buying fresh produce from your local store can be economical.

3. Many Are Still Unaware of What Veganism Involves

I was unprepared for this reality before I became vegan. I should have anticipated it, given my previous misconceptions about the lifestyle.

Most individuals don't truly grasp what being vegan means.

Be ready for restaurant staff to suggest gluten-free options when you’re looking for vegan choices. You might even hear questions about whether fish is acceptable or if a dish made with a single egg can still qualify as vegan.

People are often genuinely uninformed, and their questions aren’t meant to be dismissive. Patience and confidence in your choices are essential. You may need to explain the concept of veganism repeatedly, including clarifying that honey is not vegan.

Don’t hesitate to decline non-vegan offerings. Most people will understand, especially with a little explanation.

As time passes, it’s easy to forget that veganism isn’t a part of the mainstream for most people. While it’s becoming more common, it’s still not the standard.

4. Vegan Cuisine is Flavorful

Initially, I believed that vegan food would lack flavor. I thought I could only manage it for a few days or at most one meal daily. But committing to it for life? That seemed impossible.

Turns out, I was mistaken!

Vegan food can be incredibly tasty.

Think of your favorite dishes. There’s likely a vegan alternative available, often just a quick search away.

While some recipes may be complex, many are straightforward and manageable. I’m not a skilled cook, yet I’ve managed to create a variety of vegan dishes over the past seven years, from baked goods to hearty meals.

Vegan meals can be as simple as a fresh salad and steamed veggies, but they can also be incredibly diverse and satisfying.

With a wealth of herbs, spices, nuts, and seeds at your disposal, you can infuse your meals with flavor, using simple ingredients and cooking methods without oil or sugar.

You can explore numerous grains, including various types of rice, oats, quinoa, millet, barley, and more.

Legumes also offer endless possibilities — from beans to lentils and chickpeas. The variety is staggering, and you can experiment with fruits and vegetables you’ve never tried before.

Vegetables can be prepared in multiple ways: raw, steamed, boiled, roasted, or grilled.

And you can even get creative with ingredients like cashews for homemade cheese! Once you let go of the notion that traditional dishes must include animal products, you’ll find yourself able to create anything vegan.

You can find numerous vegan recipes online or in the many excellent cookbooks published in recent years.

5. Understanding the Difference Between Vegan and Plant-Based

While vegan and plant-based diets may sound similar, the driving philosophy behind them is what sets them apart.

“Veganism is a philosophy and a way of living which seeks to exclude — as far as is possible and practicable — all forms of, and cruelty to, animals.” — The Vegan Society.

Being vegan transcends diet; it involves a commitment to ethical principles that recognize animals as sentient beings deserving of respect.

This includes not only what you eat but also avoiding products derived from animal exploitation, such as cosmetics, clothing, and household items.

It’s a comprehensive lifestyle.

Don’t let the complexity deter you. Remember, it’s about doing what’s possible and practical, considering your budget and where you are in your journey.

Start with your diet if that feels manageable, and build from there.

6. Each Vegan’s Journey is Distinct

As a vegan, your goal is to protect animals and avoid products linked to animal cruelty as much as possible.

However, how this manifests can vary greatly from one person to another. Your path will be uniquely yours.

While many vegans are kind and understanding, there can be more militant individuals whose attitudes may discourage others.

Don't let anyone dictate your journey or define what being vegan means for you. You are the only one who understands your life, limitations, and experiences.

Seek out supportive, compassionate vegans who can inspire you, rather than those who impose their views.

It's essential to find a balance. Perfection is an unrealistic goal, and striving for it can lead to feelings of failure.

For example, I'm grateful that fast-food chains now offer vegan options. I enjoy their vegan burgers, but some vegans oppose eating there. Their intentions are valid, but I don’t feel less vegan for choosing to eat at those establishments.

Similarly, I often shop at large supermarket chains due to financial constraints and convenience, and I don't consider that a failure in my commitment to veganism.

Ultimately, do what feels right for you. You can always aim to improve, but don’t let imperfections hold you back. Even if you need to take things slowly or enjoy a non-vegan treat occasionally, that doesn’t diminish your commitment.

7. Learning to Stand Up for Yourself

Initially, I found it difficult to assert my choices as a vegan. I even ate fish once because someone had prepared it, feeling too uncomfortable to decline.

I often felt guilty for rejecting what others offered, but over time, I learned to express my preferences confidently.

Now, I kindly say, “no, thank you,” and if needed, I explain that I’m vegan.

While some may take offense, it’s often their discomfort with their own dietary choices. Be respectful, and stand firm in your decisions.

Committing to Veganism for Life

Living as a vegan is a rewarding experience. For many, it means increased energy, better health, and a greater intake of vegetables.

For me, it aligns my actions with my beliefs. I cherish animals, treat them with kindness, and refuse to participate in their suffering. Veganism has helped me connect my values with my behavior.

Choosing veganism can provide a sense of fulfillment and positively impact the world. It's an expression of compassion and love.