The 6 Stages Of Becoming A Vegan

For whatever reason you choose to go vegan, it’s okay to admit that it isn’t always easy. We know those feels. All of them.

1. Stage 1: Determination

You can do this. You’re gonna do this. Giving up some foods here and there is going to be nothing. This is a life change. You’re strong. You can get creative about this. Millions of people are vegan, why not you? You feel good about this.

2. Stage 2: Confidence

No way, it’s already been that long since you went vegan? You didn’t even notice. And you didn’t even realize how many delicious foods were still out there for you.

3. Stage 3: Realization

Huh. SO many of the things you used to eat are off limits now. And you have to keep reminding your friends about it. And your parents. And the people at Subway.

4. Stage 4: Discouragement

Yeah so maybe this is harder than expected. A lot harder. Especially when you’re tired at the end of the day and Kraft mac and cheese is so easy to make, and your vegan mac and cheese recipe just…isn’t really the same. And then your roommate offers you the rest of their Ben and Jerry’s…

5. Stage 5: Defiance

No. You will not be tempted. You’re taking a stand here. You’re making a life change. It’s not supposed to be easy all the time. You will not break, you’ve come so far. Breathe.

6. Stage 6: Satisfaction

Yes. Yes. It’s happened. Now you get it. You feel great. You’re past the adjustment period. You’ve eaten more vegetables since going vegan than you ever ate before, and it’s paying off. Sure, maybe every once in a while you miss good old regular mac and cheese, but you can hack that. You’re vegan and proud.

What other stages of becoming a vegan have you gone through? What vegan snacks are your go-to when the hunger hits? Tell us in the comments!

Feature photo by Flickr user Elaine Vigneault