I'm finding it difficult to become a vegan...?!
I'm finding it difficult to become a vegan...?
I have tried many times to become a vegan, I am already a vegetarian. My family and friends are constantly trying to tempt me to eat foods with milk/egg products, although I try to refuse it is difficult. Any suggestions as to what I can do to make it not so difficult? My family doesn't want me to become a vegan so they don't support me in any way. What should I do?
Answers:
Find some vegan friends! If you live in a place without any vegans, podcasts are really great to help you feel like you actually know some real live vegans. If you're a listener of podcasts, here are my favourites:
Vegan Freak Radio- It has an "explicit" rating from the hosts' use of profanity. The topics are sometimes controversial, since these people are abolitionist-marxist-anarchist young college professors, but they're totally awesome. They recommend you stay away from this until you're 18 but if you go to school or have friends, I really don't see how you could lose any innocence or be offended. These guys are like my cool older best friends.
Compassionate Cooks- This one is very eloquently presented. It's definitely a really great one to listen to because the host has some good advice, and really good perspective.
Animal Voices- They have some awesome interviews.
I quit animals and animal products overnight in a family that eats animals in literally every meal.
If you're prone to cravings of cheese, chocolate, eggs, whatever, I'd say quit it completely. No gradual weaning off of things- "being good" and then allowing yourself a treat- say a slice of cheese, or a spoonful of ice cream- that will only give those foods power over you and you'll find yourself craving them constantly and eventually giving up.
When people tried to share, I stuck to my convictions and simply refused anything with animal products- nicely, but firmly.
I didn't explain the reasons behind my change to veganism. I don't think my family would have accepted it if I had begun preaching as soon as I'd made the decision. I think deep down they knew I could take care of my health; they were afraid that I would try to change the family traditions.
Making my own meals was very helpful. I still ate with my family, but I'd make something separate. It's very important to clean up all the dishes, though. Leaving a mess will get you in trouble in no time.
I think what I'm saying is you have to pick your battles. Your family is concerned about you, and chances are they're going to be watching you like a hawk to find a reason to force you to quit your veganism. Remember what is important- your attempt to reduce suffering- and quietly go about your own business. Your family and friends love you and they're just worried. The worry will go away in a while. Just keep yourself healthy and happy, and make sure to get your B12.