Fears About Becoming A Vegan
Many folks have valid fears about transitioning to a plant-based or vegan diet. How will you deal with family, friends or peers? What will you eat when you're on-the-go? How do you answer all of the questions that people will ask you when they hear you're living a vegan lifestyle? Won't my child be ostracized if they're the only vegan child at school?
For some people, making the change to live vegan is because they've heard about the cruelty associated with factory farming. For others, it has nothing to do with animals but they do it for health reasons or environmental causes. And for some, they just feel a pull in that direction and think the time is right.
Although there are so many excuses (and reasons) why more people aren't eating a vegan or even vegetarian diet, once you make the change, the tradeoff is well worth it.
-you somehow feel more at peace
-you somehow feel more in touch with nature (weird, but true!)
-you walk around feeling cleaner and lighter
-a whole new world of food opens up
How Will I Deal With Family Members, Friends, etc.?
In dealing with family members, friends, coworkers or peers, arm yourself with as much knowledge as possible. Be prepared to answer questions like "where do you get your protein from?", "so you're a tree-hugger now?", "what do you eat?" and even "how can I eat a more plant-based diet too?".
A great general answer to those who are wondering if you've gone off the deep end is to simply say you want to be healthier. And the great part about that is you're not only honestly treating your body better, but you are also being better to the Earth and to animals. It's a win-win-win!
If you want to convince others to become vegans too, one of the best ways to go about it is through their stomachs! Spewing vegan facts about why someone should or shouldn't eat meat or dairy without them asking you first is an invitation for conflict. Most people will be offended if you offer up plant-based wisdom and advice without being prompted to do so. Remember that non-vegans are still good folks, they just don't have the information and knowledge yet to make the decision for themselves.
The next time you have an opportunity to cook for someone, whether it be a potluck, classroom snack or dinner party, bring your favorite vegan dish. I've found it best not to mention it's a "plant-based" item until after they've tried it. Most of the time, people will be pleasantly surprised!
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