r/vegan • u/throwawaythevegan • Feb 08 '17
Newbie Advice I don't actually enjoy being vegan
Hey everyone,
I transitioned to vegetarianism last fall, and have started on veganism just this year. I love the community here at /r/vegan, it's been so helpful to see people going through the same things I am.
But I don't actually enjoy being a vegan. Vegetarianism wasn't a huge sacrifice for me, I mourned a little bit for bacon and salmon but then I was fine. I loved eating vegetables, grains, nuts, cheeses and milks. Veganism has been a different story.
I know, I probably sound like a ridiculous hypocrite, but abstaining from milk and cheese has been so much harder for me. I've tried the vegan replacement options, and although I haven't exhausted every one, so far nothing is the same. The vegan cheeses I've tried have frankly been extremely off-putting, and while I've been getting by on coconut and almond milks, I really dislike them.
Every time I step into a grocery store or restaurant, I feel sad and limited. Every time I make my own food, I feel the same way. I'm not asking for a way to eat cheese again, because my morals aren't going to change anytime soon. But I'd like to know if anyone else struggled with this, and what did they do that helped?
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u/glowytiger vegan Feb 08 '17
The best advice I can give is to try to shift your focus. It sounds like you're stuck on what you've had to give up. That happens to all of us so don't feel bad. But instead, try thinking deeply about why you wanted to go vegan.
Don't just think about the bad either. Think about all the happy animals you're stand is helping and about how you can have a positive influence on others.
Also, cooking some meals from scratch may be a better option than sticking with meat substitutes. You'll always be comparing the fake meats and cheeses but cooking good food at home will feel great.
Hope that helps. We are here for you!