posted July 11, 2023

A Vegan lifestyle is a beautiful journey of growth and compassion, even better when sharing it with a partner. It honestly wasn’t difficult to help my current partner go Vegan. When we met, I’d been Vegan for almost 10 years. The ethics and practice of Veganism are a significant part of my lifestyle, and I always assumed any partner would eventually embrace this lifestyle as well. It’s simple to see that Veganism benefits the animals, the planet, others, and us.

When I met my husband, he was an omnivore who’d grown up on a farm. When I told him I was Vegan, he said, “Well, as long as you don’t try to change me,” and I didn’t try to change him. We did discuss why he was using statins, a CPAP machine, allergy medicine, and why killing a pig when he was thirteen was still so disturbing for him even forty years later.

A few months after we met, he said it all made sense and would try being Vegan. He chose Thanksgiving of 2016 to start, saying if he could make it through that food-centric holiday as a Vegan, the rest of the year would be a piece of Vegan cake.

Seven years later, we’re married and enjoying this fantastic Vegan journey together. He’s been on board with the animal rights philosophy of Veganism and embracing all the delicious possibilities of a plant-based diet. He says his emotional, mental, and physical health has significantly improved. We’re building a home with as little animal exploitation as possible, sourcing building materials and even our art and decoration choices with a Vegan mindset.

Transitioning to a Vegan lifestyle can be a transformative and compassionate choice. If you’re looking to support your partner in their decision to go Vegan, it’s essential to approach it with understanding, patience, and open communication. Here are practical tips and guidance to help you navigate this journey together and create a harmonious and sustainable Vegan lifestyle as a couple.

10 Practical Tips to Go Vegan as a Couple

1. Educate Yourself

Learn about Veganism, its ethics, environmental impact, health benefits, and a diverse range of plant-based foods. This knowledge will enable meaningful conversations with your partner.

2. Communicate with Empathy

Approach discussions about Veganism with empathy and an open mind. Encourage your partner to share their motivations, concerns, and challenges. Respect their perspective, even if you don’t fully understand or agree.

3. Lead by Example

Explore Veganism together by incorporating more plant-based meals and discovering new recipes. Support your partner during the transition, as adapting to new flavors and textures may take time.

4. Shop and Cook Together

Make grocery shopping and cooking a collaborative and enjoyable experience. Explore local farmers’ markets, health food stores, and Vegan-friendly restaurants. Experiment with ingredients and cooking techniques to create delicious Vegan meals.

5. Provide Resources and Support

Share documentaries, books, and online communities that offer guidance and support. Encourage your partner to connect with local Vegan groups or attend cooking classes. Help find Vegan alternatives for their favorite non-Vegan products.

6. Respect Individual Choices

Each person’s Vegan journey is unique. Respect your partner’s autonomy and avoid being judgmental about slip-ups or occasional non-Vegan choices. Focus on progress, not perfection.

7. Plan for Social Situations and Eating Out

Discuss strategies for navigating social events and dining out as a Vegan couple. Research Vegan-friendly restaurants and communicate dietary preferences with family and friends. Encourage your partner to express their needs without feeling pressured.

8. Celebrate Milestones and Achievements

Recognize and celebrate milestones in your partner’s Vegan journey, such as completing a month of Veganism or discovering new favorite dishes. Acknowledge the positive impacts on their health, the environment, and animal welfare.

9. Encourage Self-Care

Going Vegan can be emotionally challenging. Support your partner in practicing self-care and finding ways to cope with difficulties. Listen attentively and offer encouragement during moments of doubt or frustration.

10. Embrace the Journey Together

Supporting your partner’s Vegan journey strengthens your connection and shared values. Embrace the opportunity to learn and grow together as you navigate this fulfilling lifestyle.

Supporting your partner’s decision to go Vegan creates a compassionate and sustainable future while strengthening your relationship. By educating yourself, communicating empathetically, and embracing the journey together, you can navigate this transition with love, respect, and understanding. Together, you can embrace the joys of a plant-based lifestyle, positively impacting your health, the environment, and the animals.

 

 

Lisa V. Gotte is Vegan artist, photographer, cookbook author, gardener, recipe developer, RYT100 yoga teacher, and Main Street Vegan Academy Vegan Lifestyle Coach and Educator. She loves this planet and all of her inhabitants and creates delicious Vegan and gluten-free recipes at Planted365. Lisa also shares raw food recipes at Raw on $10 a Day, and supports and explores veganism at Veganosphere.