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Embracing Imperfection: My Journey into Half-Arsed Veganism as an Alternative to Feeling Like a Failure

Friday, 05 January 2024 02:25 Opinion

Untangling the Knots: A Journey into Half-Arsed Veganism – Embracing Imperfection and Sustainable Change

Embarking on the path of change can often resemble the intricate task of untangling a set of Christmas lights. It requires starting with the simplest knot and gradually working through the complexities. Last May, following a weekend with my vegan sister-in-law and her partner, both passionate advocates of plant-based living, I found myself intrigued. The ethical and environmental benefits of a vegan or plant-based diet had become increasingly evident, supported by research revealing significant reductions in climate-heating emissions, water pollution, and land use associated with such diets.

Motivated by a desire to explore a more sustainable and ethical way of eating, I set up a WhatsApp group titled "Vegan curious …" with the intention of collecting delicious vegan recipes. The couple, known for their culinary expertise, had prepared an array of mouthwatering vegan curries during that weekend, leaving a lasting impression. The reasoning behind their plant-based dishes, centered on compassion for animals, was both gentle and compelling.

However, as the weeks unfolded, my initial enthusiasm waned. The routine of the weekly shopping and meal preparation, already a source of anxiety, proved challenging to overhaul. Faced with the overwhelming prospect of replacing every item on my shopping list and every staple meal with a vegan alternative, I hesitated. The familiar cycle of opting for convenience and routine prevailed – click, click, click. Ordered. Bed.

Yet, with the arrival of January and the resurgence of Veganuary, the call for change echoed once more. This time, however, I sought a more sustainable approach to my transition. Enter "Half-Arse Veganuary," a term coined by poet, vlogger, and presenter Leena Norms. The concept resonates with the acknowledgment of imperfection, urging a gradual shift towards a more plant-based lifestyle without the overwhelming pressure to overhaul every aspect at once.

In navigating this path of Half-Arsed Veganism, the focus shifts from perfection to progress, embracing the understanding that sustainable change is a personal journey. It's an invitation to explore plant-based alternatives at a pace that aligns with individual comfort and circumstances. As the journey unfolds, the aim is not to eliminate every knot at once but to steadily untangle the complexities, making room for a more sustainable and mindful approach to eating.

Embracing the 'Half-Arsed' Approach: A Gradual Shift towards Sustainability

The concept is refreshingly straightforward: instead of attempting a complete overhaul of your lifestyle, venture into small, "half-arsed" efforts at change. This intriguing approach, championed by poet and presenter Leena Norms, suggests incremental steps toward a more sustainable existence. From incorporating vegan snacks to opting for plant-based choices while dining out, the Half-Arsed Veganuary challenge encourages participants to explore gradual transitions. Whether it's choosing vegan condiments, experimenting with vegan breakfasts, or trying vegan alternatives where available, the method is a bit-by-bit journey that extends beyond diet to various aspects of sustainable living.

The ripple effect of such small sustainable choices is twofold. Firstly, every minor change contributes positively to the environment. Even if individuals opt for plant-based breakfasts while maintaining other dietary habits, the collective impact on the environmental scale is noteworthy. Secondly, and perhaps more significantly, these manageable changes are poised to pave the way for more profound and enduring lifestyle choices.

This approach aligns with the insights of behavioral scientist BJ Fogg, founder of the Behaviour Design Lab at Stanford University. Fogg proposes that rather than attempting to break a habit, one should focus on untangling it, akin to unraveling a set of Christmas lights. Just as untangling cannot happen all at once, the journey to change begins with addressing the easiest tangle first. This method challenges our expectations about the process of change, emphasizing that it's a gradual journey, not an overnight transformation.

Drawing inspiration from Fogg's theory, opting for an oat-milk latte instead of traditional coffee becomes a small but significant step in untangling one's relationship with animal products. Unlike previous attempts that may have ended in frustration, this approach recognizes the importance of manageable knots, fostering a sense of progress.

As I embark on this journey, I invite you to consider it too, especially if you find yourself vegan-curious but understandably overwhelmed by the prospect of untangling a complex and knotted relationship with animal products. The goal is not to set a rigid time frame for a complete lifestyle change but to embrace the journey of gradual, sustainable transformation, one manageable knot at a time.

As I embark on the journey of 'Half-Arsed Veganism,' my sister-in-law, a dedicated vegan, has generously shared her coveted vegan curry recipes with me. Intrigued and inspired, I find myself perusing the menu of a local cafe, contemplating a potential life-changing breakfast. The prospect of indulging in the vegan chestnut and cherry porridge has my taste buds tingling with anticipation. This small yet flavorful step marks the beginning of my exploration into a more sustainable and ethical way of eating.

The allure of diverse plant-based options and the excitement of experimenting with new flavors have infused a sense of enthusiasm into this endeavor. With each recipe and menu item, I discover the richness of plant-based alternatives, dispelling preconceived notions and embracing the possibility of change.

As I prepare to savor the vegan delights on my plate, the journey ahead holds promise and curiosity. Chloë Hamilton, freelance journalist, welcomes the evolving narrative of Half-Arsed Veganism, recognizing the potential for meaningful shifts in lifestyle choices.

Do you have insights or perspectives on the themes discussed in this article? We invite you to share your thoughts in a response of up to 300 words. Send your reflections via email for consideration in our letters section, and let your voice contribute to the ongoing conversation. Click here to submit your response.

In the delightful exploration of 'Half-Arsed Veganism,' the exchange of vegan curry recipes from my sister-in-law marks the beginning of a flavorful journey. With anticipation, I peruse the café's menu, contemplating a potential life-changing experience with the tempting vegan chestnut and cherry porridge. This small yet significant step reflects the evolving narrative of my venture into a more sustainable and ethical way of eating.

The allure of diverse plant-based options and the excitement of embracing new flavors infuse this endeavor with enthusiasm. Each recipe and menu item becomes a discovery, challenging preconceptions and fostering a genuine appreciation for the richness of plant-based alternatives.

As I prepare to savor the vegan delights before me, the journey ahead holds promise and curiosity. Chloë Hamilton, a freelance journalist, acknowledges the potential for meaningful shifts in lifestyle choices within the evolving narrative of Half-Arsed Veganism.

The door remains open for you to contribute your insights and perspectives on the themes discussed in this article. We welcome responses of up to 300 words via email, inviting your voice to enrich the ongoing conversation. Click here to share your reflections and be part of the dialogue shaping the future of sustainable living.

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