There is no shame in admitting that becoming a vegan is something of a challenge. It isn’t necessarily the diet itself that is tricky. Instead, it is the learning curve associated with making any kind of big lifestyle change – but the barriers to veganism can be daunting for some.
With veganism, the problem is that most people talk themselves out of it before they have even given it a chance. Most individuals declare that they can’t possibly go vegan without bothering with a trial period!
So, this post takes a look at how you can overcome the real and perceived barriers that are typically linked to veganism.
“I Can’t Give Up Meat, Bacon, Cheese, etc.”
Yes, this is the resounding clarion call, and one of the most popular barriers to veganism. In some cases, though, individuals are genuinely concerned that they won’t be able to give up meat, cheese, or other animal-derived products for a long period. This is a natural concern since most people struggle to stick to any new or restrictive diets, even those involving weight loss or muscle gain.
If this is something you have been struggling with or have heard a potential vegan say, there is a solution. First of all, stop thinking about it. The more you mull over it, the bigger the issue may seem. Thus, you will end up talking yourself out of this step since you already assume it’s too hard.
You don’t even have to make a plan to cut meat, dairy, and eggs out of your diet. Try a level that you are comfortable with. This could be cutting out a particular type of meat from your diet for a week. Or, making a conscious decision to pick a plant-based meal over a meat-based one.
Regardless of how you go about it, just stop thinking about it and take some action – any action. This will show you that it is easier to go vegan, contrary to what you might have imagined. And, when you come to this conclusion, the next few steps may be even easier than the first.
“Being Vegan Is No Fun”
Veganism is still framed as a lifestyle that requires you to give up things you like. In particular, it makes you surrender what you have always been familiar with or enjoyed. Thus, when people think about veganism, they focus on giving up ice cream and cheese and not being able to eat out. This is another one of the most common barriers to veganism for so many.
Well, the truth is that veganism isn’t about giving things up. Rather, it is about substituting. No, you may not be able to eat dairy ice cream anymore, but you can eat ice cream that is made of non-dairy milk. Sure, cake may be off the menu now, but guess what’s replaced it – vegan cake!
Since veganism is now more widespread than ever before, it isn’t all that difficult to get your hands on vegan treats. Even if you can’t find them, there are many easy vegan recipes that you can whip up yourself.
So, what about going out to eat or ordering in? Once again, substitution is key. Look at some of your favorite meals and figure out how to omit or add ingredients to create a well-rounded dish. You will be surprised at how many restaurants and cafes are willing to cooperate.
“I Don’t Want to Be a Political or Activist Vegan”
You don’t have to! Yes, there are many vegans out there who will actively campaign for animal rights or other topics regarding veganism. While this is a noble thing to do, you are under no obligation to follow in their footsteps.
Veganism is like any other lifestyle – it is up to you to figure out what your boundaries are. For some individuals, it is enough just to practice veganism. Remember, it doesn’t matter how small your contribution to the cause may seem – it all matters.
You should also keep in mind that the way you choose to live your life can often be a beacon to others. You may be able to have a positive influence on someone without saying a word! So, there’s no need for you to feel pressured into being a political vegan. Just make the best possible choices that you can.
“People Will Think I’m Weird/Make Fun of Me”
There is a vast collection of vegan jokes out there. And, your friends and family members may want to try each one of them out on you. Even worse, you are going to hear the same ones parroted back to you over and over again.
Just the idea of being the butt of everyone’s jokes can be enough to put most people off veganism. However, there is something you should consider. People are going to have an opinion on any lifestyle choice you make. This includes what you study, what kind of job you get, and who you date or marry.
At least with veganism you have the moral high ground. You have made a lifestyle decision that removes you from the equation when it comes to animal suffering. Simultaneously, you also stop contributing to climate change.
Thus, when you think about it, there are worse reasons you could be made fun of. Furthermore, you could feel consoled by the fact that you are on the right side of history. Experts are already looking at the damage the animal farming industry has caused and are urging people to cut back. Isn’t it nice to know that you aren’t a part of the problem anymore?
Yes, veganism can feel like quite the transition. However, if you look more closely, you will see that those barriers aren’t as significant as you presumed them to be. They are easily surmountable if only you put in a little effort and dedication.
Therefore, you may want to build a new outlook on veganism. When you consider it, it is a wonderful change that more people should be making. Just think of how much good you will be doing in the process.
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