Now that we are welcoming 2022, many of us will think of what the year will bring and if we have any specific goals for the year. If you have landed here, chances are that you live a green life full of veggies and wholesome foods - or perhaps that is the direction you wish to go in. Fear not, although not easy, there are several things you can do to make 2022 YOUR plant-based year!
1. Take a deep breath. Eating green is a marathon, not a sprint
Transitioning towards a vegan diet is a challenge and can feel like a major change in your life. Therefore, it is important to take your time. Start with the easiest things and work your way up to the more difficult swaps. For example, if there are plant-based alternatives that you love and have easy access to, start there! Most importantly, don't blame yourself - everything takes time, and make sure that it is a pleasant experience.2. Find your favorites - experimenting is recommended
Did you know that we humans typically have to experience new flavors a couple of times, before we end up liking them? Therefore, don't be afraid to try new recipes with new ingredients - it can take a little while before you end up with a craving! For me, I had to eat tempeh a couple of times before really getting to appreciate the flavor, and now I absolutely love it!
3. Try the staples and learn how to use them
Thankfully, there are many different and delicious plant-based staples that are easy to store and use in a variety of dishes. Depending on where you live in the world, you will have different options. Foods such as tofu, chickpeas, lentils, nutritional yeast, plant-based milk alternatives, nuts, and beans will get you a long way!
4. It's okay not to like everything
There is a true abundance of plant-based food in the world, and you do not have to like everything. As mentioned above, it can take a little while for your taste buds to get used to new flavors, but if there is something you absolutely don't like, don't force yourself to eat it over and over again. Tip: try plant-based food from different parts of the world, this way you will naturally become exposed to a large variety.
5. Don't be discouraged when people don't understand your food habits
Some people say that going green is harder on one's social life than cutting out the meat. This makes sense, we are social beings, and being different can make you feel isolated. At the end of the day, all we can do is to accept each other's choices whether that be eating meat or not. Take a deep breath and remember, that there is a huge supportive community online if you can't find it offline.
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