Your new way of eating will be new to your loved ones, too. Here’s how to bring them along this journey with you.
Yes, we love them. But that doesn’t mean they’re always the easiest to talk to! Food is often at the center of our social interactions, so how can you best help those closest to you understand and embrace your new way of eating?
You may be lucky to have supportive friends and family—even if they are new to the concept of plant-based eating. If not, you may experience some pushback, and even some gentle mocking. Stay true to your convictions, and don’t take it personally. For different reasons, some people find it challenging to accept plant-based eating. With patience and kindness, you can overcome any defensiveness in time.
Your friends and family may challenge your dietary convictions, but know that this is often because they care about you. These questions are understandable—few of us were lucky enough to be brought up knowing the fundamentals of plant-based nutrition or food security! With a little information, you can bridge this gap and answer questions with grace and empathy.
When you’re among colleagues and friends at events without vegan options, it’s easy to feel like the odd-one-out. Without apologizing for your food choices, be polite, positive and assertive about being plant-based. It can help to prepare beforehand by speaking to event organizers or having a meal before the event. That way you can ensure you’ll always have the opportunity to enjoy outings with people you want to spend time with.
It can be disappointing to realize that many people, even those closest to you in your life, are not as interested as you in the compelling reasons that have motivated your new food and lifestyle choices. Avoid judgement, and give your family and friends the time and freedom to make forward progress toward understanding and perhaps even embracing your beliefs.
A colleague may gift you a steakhouse dinner, or a friend may mistakenly prepare a meal for you with an animal product you no longer eat. In these situations, it may be tempting to hide the truth to avoid embarrassment for others. Make the choice that feels right for you—and deliver it with tact and empathy. Despite any short-term discomfort, your honesty will do long-term good for all.
Advocacy is not the same thing as telling people what to do, or being preachy. Be an advocate for your values, and remember to meet people where they’re at. Don’t just talk—really listen. Ask and respond to questions. Don’t compromise your message, but use good discretion to tailor how you say it and when.
If you’re not getting the support you need from friends and family, reach out and make new friends who share your beliefs and patterns of eating. Enjoy this newfound community and bubble of friends because everyone needs a foundation of social support. But, bubbles have a way of distorting one’s perspective, and it is healthy to always have one foot outside. So keep your family and friends, and make new ones too.
If you’re going plant-based as a way to do more good, you’ve chosen a powerful form of direct action. You may also find yourself wanting to influence others to make even more positive change. Don’t underestimate the ripple effects of leading a healthy, happy life. Setting an example and being a role model may be the most effective way to bring your friends and family around to your way of thinking.
You’re unique. So’s your veg journey. Whichever path you take, here’s where to start.
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