?? My Journey to Veganism: Lessons, Fun Facts, and Tips for Starting Your Plant-Based Diet

Becoming vegan has been one of the most rewarding yet challenging journeys of my life. It started as a shift in my diet but has grown into a holistic lifestyle change that touches everything I do—from the way I eat to the way I shop and travel. Through a mix of personal learning, fun mishaps, and building sustainable habits, I’ve managed to stay true to my values while having a lot of fun along the way. Here’s what I’ve learned, and some advice for those looking to make a similar transition.

I’ve been a (flexible) vegan for the past 4 years and a vegetarian for even longer. My journey began in the Netherlands during my studies, where I found myself surrounded by friends and people who were passionate about sustainability and plant-based living. Feeling like an outsider in a predominantly vegetarian community, I started to learn more about the environmental impact of my diet and engaged in conversations that challenged my existing habits. Inspired by the people around me, I made the gradual shift from meat-eater to vegetarian, and eventually to vegan.

Since then, it’s been a journey of growth, learning, and some hilarious moments along the way. Here’s how I’ve managed to build sustainable habits, navigate the world as a vegan traveler, and stay committed to my plant-based lifestyle. Plus, I’ll share some tips for those considering making the change themselves! ???

?? How I Built Healthy Vegan Habits (and How You Can Too!)

Transitioning to a vegan lifestyle doesn’t happen overnight. As James Clear discusses in “Atomic Habits,” sustainable change comes from creating small, manageable habits that build over time. Here are some of my key takeaways:

1. Start Small and Go Slow: Don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to go fully vegan right away. Begin by cutting out one type of animal product at a time. For example, I started by giving up meat, then fish, then finally dairy and eggs. Gradually swapping products allows your taste buds and lifestyle to adjust naturally.

2. Make It Fun and Personal: Enjoy the process! Find vegan recipes that excite you, experiment with new ingredients, and get creative in the kitchen. For me, making it enjoyable was essential—I shared my progress and challenges on social media to keep myself accountable, connect with like-minded people, and make the whole process more engaging.

3. Build Accountability: Sharing your goals and progress with others creates a support system. I regularly talked about my journey with friends and family, and it motivated me to keep going. Surround yourself with people who support your choices and share your values.

4. Create a Habit Environment: Align your environment with your goals. I stopped shopping at big supermarkets and started going to local organic shops. I use reusable jars for zero-waste shopping and focus on local, organic produce. This shift made it easier to stick to my values.

5. Plan Ahead: When traveling, do your research in advance. Apps like Happy Cow are lifesavers for finding vegan-friendly restaurants wherever you go. I also use Google Maps to save vegan spots with my cute pins (my map is now overloaded with recommendations!). This not only makes dining out stress-free but also adds a layer of fun and exploration to every trip.

?? Fun Facts and Adventures: Vegan Travel Mishaps

Traveling as a vegan is an adventure in itself, filled with fun, challenges, and some hilarious misunderstandings! Here are a few of my memorable experiences:

• Misadventures in France: Determined to practice my French at a restaurant, I proudly ordered what I thought was a vegan dish. Imagine my surprise when the waiter brought me a plate of pork! Instead of feeling guilty, I chose to make light of the situation. Sustainability matters more to me than perfection, so I decided not to waste the food and reluctantly ate it—eyes closed, of course.

Lesson learned: don’t let small slip-ups derail your journey; instead, laugh and learn from them!

• Lost in Translation in Thailand: While exploring a small village in Thailand, I encountered another language barrier. There were no English menus, and I ended up ordering a dish full of eggs. Oops! Again, I took it in stride, chalked it up to a learning experience, and kept moving forward.

These moments remind me that being vegan isn’t about perfection—it’s about doing your best with what you have.

• The Power of Planning: Despite these hiccups, I’ve found that a bit of planning goes a long way. Thanks to Happy Cow, I’ve found incredible vegan restaurants in unexpected places. Whether I’m in a bustling city or a remote village, a little research ensures I can always find delicious, plant-based food. My Google Maps is my secret weapon, loaded with vegan spots across the globe (and perhaps a bit too full at this point!).

If you want to save my Vegan Best Spots, here you go...

Amsterdam

Brussels

London

...and for more just connect with me and I wll share what you need!

?? Tips for Starting Your Plant-Based Journey

If you’re considering a shift to a plant-based diet, here are my recommendations:

1. Educate Yourself: Watch documentaries like “Forks Over Knives,” “The Game Changers,” or “What the Health?” to understand the impact of diet on health, the planet, and animals.
2. Find Your Community: Join local vegan groups, volunteer with food-sharing communities, or follow vegan influencers who inspire you. Being around like-minded people makes the transition easier and more fun.
3. Experiment in the Kitchen: Find joy in cooking! Start with simple recipes and gradually try new, more complex dishes. Follow vegan chefs on Instagram, or join a cooking class to learn how to make your favorite dishes plant-based.
4. Use Tools and Apps: Download apps like Happy Cow to find vegan-friendly spots wherever you go. Use online resources and platforms to find sustainable brands for everything—from clothing to cosmetics.
5. Progress Over Perfection: Remember, it’s okay to make mistakes. What matters is the intention behind your actions and your commitment to continuously improve. Every small step counts!

?? Key Takeaways

My journey to veganism has been shaped by curiosity, a desire for sustainability, and a willingness to learn from every experience—good or bad. It’s about finding a balance that feels right for you, taking it one step at a time, and remembering that every choice you make has an impact. Whether you’re at the beginning of your journey or looking to deepen your commitment, know that you’re not alone. Share your story, embrace the fun, and stay curious.

Let’s make the world a kinder, greener place—one bite at a time! ????

By sharing my experiences and the lessons I’ve learned, I hope to inspire others to consider the benefits of a plant-based diet and sustainable living. Whether you’re thinking about making the change or are already on the path, I hope my journey offers you some encouragement, humor, and practical tips for your own adventure.

If you’re curious about going vegan or looking for sustainable lifestyle inspiration, let’s connect! Follow me on Instagram for daily tips, recipes, and insights on living a plant-based and eco-friendly life. Whether you’re just starting out or already on your way, I’m here to share what I’ve learned, answer your questions, and keep the motivation high.

Looking for a passionate advocate to represent your sustainable brand? I’d love to help spread your message! Connect with me, and let’s make a positive impact together! ????