How to Be Vegan in 7 Simple Steps

Learning how to be vegan starts with making the connection between the foods we eat and the animals behind them. This guide breaks it down into seven simple steps on transitioning to vegan living in a practical, realistic way.

Let me guess - you care about animals, but the idea of going vegan feels daunting. A turkey-less Thanksgiving? What, no bacon? Life without cheese pizza? When so many favorite foods and traditions revolve around animal products, it can be hard to imagine what vegan living would even look like.

I get it. I was raised on meat, dairy, and eggs too. Every meal centered around meat, milk was a given, and no one questioned it - until one day I did. That single moment changed how I thought about food, animals, and my choices, and it set everything else in motion.

Thinking about going vegan? Start here.

Believe it or not, being vegan is easier than you might think! When you replace animal-derived ingredients with plant-based foods, you're making a choice that will benefit you, the planet, and animals. It's a win-win-win!

When I began my journey to vegan living almost 50 years ago, it seemed difficult and restrictive - but the more I learned, the easier it was for me to kick the meat and dairy habit.

Today, with so many fantastic plant-based food options in restaurants and markets, and cruelty-free products available on store shelves, there's never been a better time to be vegan. You can do this!

7 Simple Steps to Being Vegan

1. Understand what veganism is about

Let's start by clearing up a common confusion - Plant-based vs Vegan

You might hear these two terms used interchangeably. While there is some overlap in the definition - they really don't mean the same thing.

The term plant-based refers to diets or foods that consist entirely or mostly of plants. Vegan is not simply a diet, it's a lifestyle. The easiest way to look at it is - All vegans eat a plant-based diet.

"Veganism is a philosophy and way of living which seeks to exclude-as far as is possible and practicable-all forms of exploitation of, and cruelty to, animals for food, clothing or any other purpose; and by extension, promotes the development and use of animal-free alternatives for the benefit of animals, humans and the environment. In dietary terms it denotes the practice of dispensing with all products derived wholly or partly from animals." The Vegan Society - Definition - What is Veganism?

Vegans avoid harming animals with the foods we choose to eat, the products we use, and the forms of entertainment we enjoy. Learning the truth about the reality of animal agriculture, laboratory animal testing, hunting and fishing, as well as animals used in entertainment and sports, is one of the most powerful ways to raise awareness and compassion for our fellow beings.

This article offers helpful insight and advice on being an effective vegan.

2. Don't try to change everything overnight

While some people go "cold turkey" (sorry - I know - bad pun), most people don't go vegan in a day. Start where you are, make a few intentional changes, and let those choices build on each other as your confidence and commitment grows.

It's ok to take baby steps into veganism, and don't let anyone shame you for not making it happen faster.

3. Start with foods you already love

Instead of focusing on what you're giving up, look for plant-based versions of meals you already enjoy. Familiar flavors and comfort foods make the shift feel natural rather than restrictive. Think basics like vegan mac & cheese, tofu scramble, or tamale pie.

4. Replace cravings, don't ignore them

Cravings are usually about texture, richness, or nostalgia - not meat or dairy themselves. Creamy sauces, hearty bean dishes, mushrooms, tofu, and modern plant-based alternatives can fill that gap surprisingly well.

5. Focus on progress, not perfection

Be kind to yourself and don't beat yourself up if you accidentally or intentionally eat something with animal-derived ingredients. What matters is continuing to move toward a fully vegan lifestyle, even if it happens gradually.

6. Learn how to shop vegan with confidence

Knowing how to shop confidently is another important step. Learning which pantry staples to keep on hand and how to identify vegan foods makes everyday choices easier, which is why I created my vegan grocery shopping list as a practical starting point.

7. Use reliable recipes and resources

Good recipes matter - especially when you're learning. Trusted cookbooks and well-tested recipes created by humans (not AI) help ensure your meals are satisfying, which makes vegan living far easier to maintain.

Veganuary is a global movement that kicks off every New Year by encouraging people to make a 31-day pledge to avoid using animal products. You don't have to wait until January to join - you can do this anytime! Here are a month's worth of my favorite vegan recipes for you to enjoy!

Reader Note: Some of the documentaries and books shared here explore the realities of animal agriculture and animal suffering and may contain graphic or violent imagery. The subject matter may be emotionally difficult and not suitable for children. Parents and caregivers are encouraged to preview content in advance and use their own discretion.