Going Vegan: How To Deal With Negative Responses

Making lifestyle changes often comes with judgement and criticism, and veganism is no different. Veteran vegans know about negative criticism all too well, but fortunately, it’s a lifestyle that’s becoming much more accepted and understood. An increasing number of people now know what a vegan is, and more people are even looking into adopting the lifestyle themselves.

For me, the social aspect of going vegan was what I found the most challenging. So I understand if you are struggling in that area too. 

There are numerous reasons why people might have a bad reaction to you going vegan. People are known to attack what they don’t understand, but also, veganism may make them question their morals. It’s a hugely complex situation, and each person has their reasoning for reacting the way they do. It’s something that we cannot control. What we can control, however, is how we behave in response. 

The foundation of veganism is compassion, and that compassion counts for our fellow humans as well. I know that it can be tempting to lose your temper when someone is questioning your morals, but a heated argument is unproductive and never ends well. Show kindness to the other person and think back to when you may have felt the same way that they do. 

There is no use adding fuel to the fire, so try your best not to return any aggression and keep your cool. You shouldn’t give anyone a reason to believe in the inaccurate ‘angry vegan’ stereotype.

Instead of matching their negative energy, remain positive and open-minded. Many of us were not born vegan, we took time to learn, and the same goes for others. So remember, although somebody is criticising the vegan lifestyle, that doesn’t mean they’ll think that way forever. Years before I quit animal products, I thought it was the most bizarre thing in the world! 

This is easier said than done but try not to take comments personally. Going vegan comes with certain stereotypes and jokes that you’re bound to hear more than once. Having thick skin and a sense of humour always helps, so don’t take yourself too seriously. 

We have to accept that not everyone is open to new ideas, and not everyone will go vegan. There are billions of people on the earth, and everyone has their unique way of thinking - we can’t all be the same. You will eventually learn how to recognise when individuals are set in their ways and are looking for an argument. Whenever you encounter someone like this, keep your responses brief and stay calm. 

Arguments about veganism and life choices can often be incredibly deflating. You may sometimes leave the conversation questioning your beliefs. But you shouldn't. Remain strong-minded, confident and remind yourself why you chose the vegan path in the first place.