10 Tips On How To Easily Overcome Obstacles When Going Vegan

08.06.2025


Going vegan can be a challenge for many people, whether due to ingrained habits, lack of information or peer pressure. Changing your eating habits and lifestyle requires not only commitment, but also an openness to new possibilities and a willingness to learn. Some may find it difficult to give up favourite foods, while others may face incomprehension from family or friends. Still, it is important to remember that every step towards a plant-based diet has a positive impact - not only on your health, but also on the environment and animals.

This article gives you 10 practical tips to help you overcome the most common obstacles and ease your way to veganism. It's not just about what you eat, but also how you think, plan and approach this change. Veganism is not about perfection, but about striving to make better choices every day. With a little preparation, support and inspiration, you'll find that a vegan lifestyle can not only be easy, but also joyful and rewarding.

In this article, you'll learn how to start gradually, educate yourself, plan ahead, and manage social situations. You'll learn how to search for vegan alternatives to your favorite foods, read labels, and experiment in the kitchen. Plus, you'll discover the importance of being kind to yourself and tracking your progress. Veganism is not just about changing your diet, but embracing a lifestyle that benefits not only you, but the world around you.

Why it's important to overcome barriers to going vegan

Going vegan isn't just about changing what we put on our plates, but about an overall approach to life that reflects respect for nature, animals and our own bodies. Adopting a vegan lifestyle means making conscious choices that have a positive impact on the world around us.

Overcoming initial challenges such as finding new recipes, adapting to a different way of shopping or coping with the reactions of those around you will open the door to exploring new flavours, ingredients and ways of preparing food. 

Going vegan not only allows you to expand your diet but also improve your health with a diet rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

In addition to the health benefits, veganism has a major impact on the planet. Reducing the consumption of animal products leads to a smaller ecological footprint, saves water resources and contributes to the protection of natural ecosystems. 

Thus, overcoming the obstacles on the road to veganism is not only a personal victory, but also a step towards a more sustainable future for all of us.

Plus, adopting a vegan lifestyle can be an inspiration to those around you. When others see that you are able to overcome challenges and find joy in the change, they may reflect on their own choices and their impact. 

Thus, going vegan can not only be a personal journey, but also a way to positively impact society.

Tip 1: Start gradually

Going vegan doesn't have to be a radical change that happens overnight. On the contrary, taking gradual steps will allow you to better adapt to your new lifestyle and avoid feeling overwhelmed. Start by choosing one meal a day to replace with a plant-based alternative. This approach will give you time to explore new flavours, ingredients and recipes without feeling pressured.

For example, you can start with breakfast - instead of the classic dairy breakfast, try porridge made with almond, oat or soya milk. 

Add fresh fruit, nuts or seeds for extra flavour and nutrition. Gradually add other plant-based foods to your diet, for example lunch or dinner.

This step-by-step approach will also allow you to better understand how your body responds to dietary changes and adapt it to your needs. 

In addition, it will give you room to experiment with different plant-based alternatives such as plant-based cheeses, meat substitutes or new types of legumes.

The important thing to remember is that every little step counts. Even if you start with just one plant-based meal a day, you are already contributing to improving your health, protecting animals and reducing your ecological footprint. 

Incremental changes are more sustainable and increase the chances that you will adopt a new lifestyle in the long term. 

Tip 2: Educate yourself

Education is a key step in going vegan, as it helps you understand not only the health benefits of a plant-based diet, but also its environmental and ethical impact. The more information you have, the better prepared you will be to face challenges and answer questions or doubts from those around you.

Start by finding quality sources of information such as books, documentaries, articles or podcasts focused on veganism.

For example, the documentary "Cowspiracy" offers an in-depth look at the environmental impacts of animal agriculture, while the book "How Not to Die" by Dr. Michael Greger focuses on the health benefits of a plant-based diet and provides science-based advice on how to prevent chronic disease.

In addition, you can visit websites and blogs that are dedicated to the vegan lifestyle.

These resources often offer practical tips, recipes and inspiration on how to get started and stay motivated.

Also follow social media where you can find vegan influencers sharing their experiences, advice and daily tips.

Education will also help you to better understand your nutritional needs and ensure that your diet is balanced and rich in all important nutrients.

For example, you will learn how to get enough protein, iron, calcium or vitamin B12 from plant sources.

Remember that education is not a one-time process, but a long-term journey.

The world of veganism is a constantly evolving field, so it's good to stay open to new information and discover new ways to improve your lifestyle.

The more you know, the more confident and self-assured you will be in your decisions.

Tip 3: Plan ahead

Planning is one of the most important steps to ease your transition to veganism and avoid situations where you don't know what to eat. Prepare your menu a week in advance so that you have a clear idea of what you will be cooking and can buy all the ingredients you need in time. This approach will not only help you save time, but also minimize food waste.

Always have healthy vegan snacks on hand to save you when hunger strikes. 

Great choices include nuts, seeds, dried fruit, hummus with chopped vegetables or homemade energy bars. 

These snacks are not only nutritious but also easily portable so you can take them with you at work, school or on the go. 

When planning your menu, focus on the basic ingredients that form the foundation of a vegan diet. 

Buy legumes such as lentils, chickpeas or beans, which are rich in protein and fibre. Don't forget whole grains like quinoa, oats or brown rice, which provide energy and important nutrients. 

Plant milks, nuts, seeds and fresh and frozen vegetables should also be in your pantry. 

If you have time, prepare some of the meals in advance. 

For example, you can make a large quantity of soup, sauce or a legume salad that will last for several days. 

This will make it easier to prepare meals during the working week and ensure that you always have something tasty and nutritious on hand. 

Planning ahead will also help you better manage social situations such as family gatherings or outings. 

If you know you'll be away from home, prepare your own food or find out where you can find vegan options nearby. 

This will help you avoid stress and allow you to enjoy every situation without worry. 

Tip 4: Learn to read labels

Reading labels is one of the most important skills you should learn when going vegan. Although a product may appear vegan at first glance, a closer look at the ingredients will often reveal hidden animal ingredients. Some of the most common include casein (milk protein), gelatin (derived from animal bones and skin), lactose (milk sugar) or shellac (derived from insect excrement).

In addition to these ingredients, you may also come across lesser-known names such as carmine (a red dye from insects), lanolin (derived from sheep's wool) or pepsin (an enzyme from pig stomachs). 

Learning to recognize these names will help you avoid non-vegan products and stay true to your values.

If you're not sure if a product is vegan, you can use various mobile apps to help you identify the ingredients. 

Some apps allow you to scan barcodes and instantly tell you if a product is suitable for vegans. 

It's also important to pay attention to the certifications on the packaging. 

Look for labels like "Vegan" or the Vegan Society logo, which guarantee that the product contains no animal ingredients and has not been tested on animals. 

Over time, reading labels will become a natural part of your shopping experience. It can be time-consuming at first, but with practice, you'll quickly learn to recognize appropriate products. 

This step will not only make your transition to veganism easier, but it will also give you more control over what you consume and help you make informed decisions.

Remember, even small steps like learning to read labels can have a big impact on your vegan lifestyle. Every product you choose consciously is a step towards a more sustainable and ethical world. 

Tip 5: Find vegan alternatives to your favourite foods

Going vegan doesn't mean you have to give up your favourite foods. On the contrary, today's market offers a wide range of vegan alternatives that allow you to enjoy familiar flavours in plant-based form. Love pizza, burgers, pasta or even ice cream? All these dishes can easily be prepared in their vegan version without sacrificing taste or quality.

For example, for pizza you can use vegetable cheese, which melts well, and try marinated seitan, tempeh or grilled vegetables as a meat substitute. 

For burgers, you can reach for ready-made vegetable patties, which are widely available today, or make a homemade version with pulses, oatmeal and spices.

If you like your pasta with a creamy sauce, try using cashews or coconut milk as a base for the sauce. 

For sweet lovers, there are vegan alternatives to ice cream, chocolate or even whipped cream that are made with plant-based ingredients such as coconut, almonds or soy.

Experimenting with vegan alternatives can open the door to new flavours and recipes you may not have known before. Plus, you can customize meals to your preferences and create your own versions of your favorite dishes.

If you're not sure where to start, find inspiration from vegan blogs, social media or plant-based cookbooks. Many recipes are simple and don't require complicated ingredients.

Finding vegan alternatives to your favourite foods is not only fun, but also motivating. 

You will see that veganism is not about restriction, but rather about discovering new possibilities and tastes that may pleasantly surprise you. 

Tip 6: Join the community

Joining a community is one of the best ways to ease your transition to veganism and get support on your journey. Sharing experiences, advice and recipes with other vegans can give you motivation and inspiration, especially if you encounter challenges or doubts. The community will also help you feel less isolated as you will be surrounded by people who share similar values and goals.

There are many ways to get involved in the vegan community. 

Online platforms such as Facebook groups, forums or Instagram offer a space to discuss, share recipes and tips or find answers to questions. 

These groups often include members from different parts of the world, allowing you to get a global perspective on veganism and discover new ideas. 

In addition to the online space, focus on local events such as vegan festivals, markets or workshops. 

These events are a great opportunity to meet like-minded people, sample new foods and learn about local resources such as vegan restaurants or shops. 

Plus, you can learn more about current trends and innovations in plant-based eating.

If there is a lack of a vegan community in your area, you can create one yourself. 

For example, organise a cookout, a picnic or a discussion evening. 

Such activities will not only strengthen your own commitment, but can also inspire others to take an interest in veganism. 

The community is also a great source of emotional support. 

If you encounter misunderstanding or criticism from those around you, other vegans can offer advice on how to handle these situations and encourage you to stay true to your values. 

Joining a community allows you to not only grow as an individual, but also to contribute to the spread of the vegan lifestyle. Together with others, you can create positive change that impacts society, animals and the planet. 

Tip 7: Be prepared for questions and criticism

Going vegan often brings questions and sometimes criticism from family, friends or colleagues. It is therefore important to be prepared for these situations and learn to respond with calmness, respect and facts. Common questions such as "Where do you get your protein from?" or "Isn't veganism too expensive?" can be an opportunity to explain your reasons to others and make them aware of the benefits of a plant-based diet.

The key is to stay calm and not take questions as an attack. Many people ask simply because they don't have enough information about veganism, or because it's something new to them. 

Prepare answers to common questions that are based on scientific facts and personal experience. 

For example, you can explain that protein can be easily obtained from foods such as legumes, tofu, tempeh, nuts or whole grains. 

If you encounter criticism, try to respond with empathy and understanding. 

Instead of getting into a conflict, try to have a dialogue and offer information that may inspire the other party to think. 

For example, you can share facts about the environmental benefits of veganism or how a plant-based diet can help improve health.

Keep in mind that you may not know the answer to every question. 

If you're not sure, don't be afraid to admit that you'll look into the topic and answer later. 

This shows that you are open to learning more and that you take the topic seriously. 

In addition, it is helpful to have resources on hand that you can recommend to others. 

Whether it's books, documentaries or websites, these materials can help people better understand veganism and its benefits. 

Remember that your responses to questions and criticisms can have a big impact on how others perceive veganism. By responding with calmness, respect and a positive attitude, you can inspire others to take an interest in veganism, or at least understand your decision. 

Tip 8: Experiment in the kitchen

Veganism is a great opportunity to discover new flavours, ingredients and recipes that you have not known before. Experimenting in the kitchen will not only diversify your diet, but also help you to better understand plant-based eating and its possibilities. This will make cooking a fun and creative activity that you will enjoy.

Start by choosing a few new ingredients that you haven't used before. 

For example, try quinoa, tempeh, jackfruit or different types of legumes like black lentils or adzuki beans. 

These ingredients are not only nutritious, but also very versatile, so you can use them in a variety of dishes. 

Don't be afraid to try new recipes from different cuisines around the world. Indian, Thai, Mexican or Mediterranean cuisine offers many vegan dishes that are full of flavours and aromas. 

For example, you can prepare homemade curries, falafel, black bean tacos or Greek salad with vegan cheese. 

If you have a sweet tooth, try experimenting with vegan desserts. For example, make beetroot brownies, banana bread or homemade coconut milk ice cream. 

These recipes are not only delicious, but also a healthier alternative to traditional sweets. 

Experimenting in the kitchen also allows you to customize your meals to your preferences. 

For example, if you don't like a certain vegetable, you can substitute it with another one you like. 

This way, you can create your own versions of your favorite dishes that match your tastes and needs. 

You can find inspiration on vegan blogs, in cookbooks or on social media, where you can find lots of simple and creative recipes. Don't be afraid to improvise and try new combinations of flavours and ingredients.

Experimenting in the kitchen is not only a great way to adopt a vegan lifestyle, but also an opportunity to enjoy your time spent cooking and exploring new possibilities. Plus, it can inspire you to share your creations with family and friends and show them that a vegan diet can be tasty, varied and fun.

Tip 9: Track your progress

Going vegan is not only a dietary change, but also a journey of personal growth and discovery. Track your progress to better understand how this change affects your body and mind. Keeping records will help you identify positive changes, but also any challenges you may be facing.

Start by regularly writing down how you feel physically. 

For example, track your energy during the day, the quality of your sleep, your digestion, or changes in your skin. 

Many people see improvements in these areas after going vegan, which can be great motivation to keep going. 

In addition to physical changes, pay attention to your mental state. 

Write down how you feel emotionally, whether you feel more joy, peace or a sense of accomplishment from doing something beneficial for the planet, animals and your health. 

These records can help you realize how veganism contributes to your overall well-being.

If you encounter challenges, such as lack of energy or cravings for certain foods, the records can help you identify the cause. 

You may find that you need more protein, iron, or other nutrients, and you can adjust your diet accordingly. 

Keeping records doesn't have to be complicated. You can keep a simple journal, use a health tracking app, or create a spreadsheet to record your observations. 

The important thing is that the process is convenient and easy for you to sustain. 

Also track your progress on the practical aspects of a vegan lifestyle. Write down new recipes you've tried, favourite products you've discovered, or tips that have made your daily life easier. 

These notes can serve as inspiration and a reminder of how far you've come. 

Tracking your progress regularly will not only help you better understand how veganism affects your life, but it will also keep you motivated. 

Every small step you take is a testament to your commitment and drive to make a positive change. 

Plus, these records can serve as a valuable resource if you decide to inspire others to take a similar path. 

Tip 10: Be kind to yourself

Going vegan is a process that can be fraught with challenges, and it's important to remember that no one is perfect. If you make a mistake, such as accidentally eating something that contains animal ingredients or going back to old habits, don't beat yourself up. Instead, look at it as an opportunity to learn and grow. Every step you take towards veganism is meaningful and counts.

Be patient with yourself and realise that changing habits takes time. Going vegan isn't about perfection, it's about trying to make better choices every day. 

Even small changes, like replacing one meal a day with a plant-based alternative, can have a big impact on your health, the planet and animals.

If you're feeling frustrated or like you're failing, remind yourself why you chose veganism. 

Focus on your goals and values that led you down this path. 

Think about the positive impact your decision has had, whether it's reducing your ecological footprint, protecting animals or improving your health. 

It's also important to remember that everyone has their own journey. Some people go vegan overnight, while others need more time to make gradual changes. 

Both paths are fine. The important thing is that you feel good and that veganism is sustainable for you in the long term. 

Remember to reward yourself for your successes, whether they are small or large. 

Have you tried a new recipe that you liked? Have you found a vegan alternative to your favourite food? 

Or did you manage to explain your reasons for going vegan to someone who was sceptical? Celebrate these moments and be proud of yourself. 

If you feel lost or need support, don't hesitate to reach out to the vegan community. 

Sharing your experiences with others can give you motivation and remind you that you are not alone on this journey. 

Be kind to yourself not only in your transition to veganism, but also in your everyday life. 

Self-kindness is the key to long-term success and satisfaction. 

Remember that every step towards veganism, no matter how small, is a step in the right direction.

How overcoming obstacles relates to veganism

Overcoming obstacles is an integral part of any major lifestyle change, and veganism is no exception. This process not only allows you to achieve specific goals, but also to become more resilient, more confident and more connected to your own values. Overcoming initial challenges, such as finding new recipes, adapting to a different way of shopping, or coping with the reactions of those around you, opens the door to a deeper understanding of how your choices affect the world around you.

A family preparing vegan food in the kitchen.
A family preparing vegan food in the kitchen.

Veganism is a path that teaches you patience and acceptance. Every obstacle you overcome strengthens you and reminds you why you chose to make this change. 

For example, overcoming the challenges of finding a balanced diet or dealing with the reactions of a skeptical environment can give you a sense of pride and motivation to keep going.


Overcoming obstacles also allows you to explore new possibilities and expand your horizons. 

You may discover new ingredients you didn't know before, or learn to prepare dishes that delight you with their flavour and simplicity. This process will help you develop healthier and more sustainable habits that will have a positive impact not only on you, but also on the planet and animals.


Community influence - promoting the vegan way and sustainable lifestyles.
Community influence - promoting the vegan way and sustainable lifestyles.

It is also important to remember that veganism is not about perfection, but about striving to make better choices every day. 

Every step you take towards veganism, no matter how small, is meaningful. Even small changes, like replacing one meal a day with a plant-based alternative, can have a significant impact on your health, the environment and your ethics.


Overcoming obstacles to veganism also teaches you empathy and understanding for others. 

When you go through challenges yourself, you will better understand what others face and be able to support them on their journey. In this way, veganism becomes not only a personal choice, but also a way to inspire and motivate others to make positive changes.


Overall, overcoming obstacles is the key to reaping the full benefits of veganism. This process not only empowers you, but also allows you to live a life that is in line with your values and contributes to a better future for all.

Conclusion: The transition will become much easier

Going vegan can be a challenge for many people, but with these 10 practical tips it will become a much easier and more enjoyable process. Remember that veganism is not about perfection, but about striving to make better choices every day. Every step you take towards a plant-based diet, no matter how small, has a significant impact on your health, the environment and animal welfare.

Veganism is not only a way of eating, but also a lifestyle that promotes sustainability, compassion and health. Embrace this journey as an opportunity for personal growth, discovering new tastes and contributing to a better future for us all. If you encounter obstacles, remember that you are not alone - the vegan community is full of inspiring people who are ready to share their experiences and support you on your journey.