When you know, you know.

Or at least that’s how it felt for me. Some people are dip the toe in kinds of people. I am not. I’m a dive in 100% no looking back kind of person. And so this applied to my vegan journey, once I knew it’s what I wanted and understood the messages my body and soul were sending me, I was ALL in.

My body was sick, my soul was sad and in my mind and heart I knew it was the right path for me. I could no longer justify why I needed to contribute to animal and animal product consumerism.

One day, it all made sense and I made the switch to veganism overnight, never looking back. It was the easiest decision I’ve ever made. One that came deep from within, reinforced by people, media, research and some significant animal experiences I had had around that time.

Humans have this brilliant ability to bury their feelings and true selves. We often ignore signs and information because it’s not convenient to upend life as we know it or to go against what society deems “normal.”

But finally allowing myself to understand what my body was craving and especially to really comprehend what goes on in the meat and dairy industries. To really sit down and think about it. To let it sit. To allow myself to fully understand how it makes me feel and then act on that instinct. That, is liberating.

And spoiler alert, veganism hasn’t upended my life as much as I thought it would. Sure it took some adjustments and getting used to. But it’s 2020 and there is an incredibly supportive vegan community and a growing understanding of the positive impacts a vegan lifestyle offers so society is becoming more accepting of this new normal. Plus the food options for vegans are endless – there is an entire industry of vegan food makers who are creating culinary wonders (and greasy junk food) that are 100% plant-based and cruelty-free.

Freeing myself from the shackles of the mindset that we “need” and “deserve” animal products to survive or enjoy life is the best thing I’ve ever done.