You’re excited. You’ve decided to go vegan—huge step! But here’s the thing: many people start strong, only to quit a few months later. And it’s not because they didn’t care or lacked willpower.
They simply made avoidable mistakes that pushed them back to their old habits.
The good news? You don’t have to make the same missteps.
Most people who struggle with veganism don’t fail because of cravings or inconvenience. They fail because they jump in unprepared, miss key nutrients, or overcomplicate things. The result? Frustration, fatigue, and eventually giving up.
But not you. Not this time.
In this guide, we’ll break down six common mistakes that make people quit veganism—and, more importantly, how to avoid them.
Mistake #1: Going Vegan Without a Plan
Going vegan overnight might sound exciting, but without a plan, it’s a recipe for frustration.
Imagine signing up for a marathon without training—you wouldn’t last long. The same goes for veganism. If you don’t prepare, you’ll find yourself hungry, stressed, and tempted to quit.
The key? Start with what you already love. Many of your favorite meals can be made vegan with simple swaps.
Love tacos? Swap meat for lentils or a plant-based mince. Big on pasta? Your tomato sauce is likely already vegan—just skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Stock up on essentials like beans, lentils, chickpeas, rice, and spices. These will help you make quick, satisfying meals without overthinking. If going fully vegan feels overwhelming, take it step by step.
Start with vegan breakfasts, then move to lunches and dinners.
Meal planning is another game-changer. Set aside time each week to map out meals and prep ingredients. Having ready-to-go meals will save you from last-minute cravings or resorting to fast food.
If you’re feeling lost, check out meal plans from The Vegan Society or consult a dietitian. A little planning now makes all the difference in sticking with it long-term.
Mistake #2: Not Getting the Right Nutrients
Going vegan isn’t just about cutting out animal products—it’s about making sure you’re getting everything your body needs.
If you’re constantly tired, moody, or craving non-vegan foods, chances are you’re missing key nutrients.
The big ones? Vitamin B12, iron, calcium, omega-3s, iodine, and protein. A poorly planned vegan diet can leave you deficient, leading to fatigue, brain fog, and even weakened immunity.
The fix is simple:
- B12 – Found in fortified plant milks, nutritional yeast, and supplements.
- Iron – Get it from lentils, spinach, tofu, and pair with vitamin C (like citrus) for better absorption.
- Calcium – Fortified plant milks, almonds, tahini, and leafy greens.
- Omega-3s – Chia seeds, flaxseeds, walnuts, or an algae-based DHA supplement.
Supplements aren’t a weakness—they’re smart. A vegan multivitamin with B12, D3, and iodine can help fill gaps.
Fueling your body properly makes all the difference. When you get the right nutrients, you’ll feel energized, strong, and ready to thrive on a vegan diet.
For more tips, check out resources like the USDA vegan nutrition guide and this vegan Eatwell Guide.
Mistake #3: Thinking All Vegan Food Is Healthy
Just because it’s vegan doesn’t mean it’s healthy.
Processed vegan foods—like burgers, nuggets, and ice cream—might be free of animal products, but they can still be loaded with sodium, sugar, and additives.
The key? Read labels. If an ingredient list looks like a chemistry experiment, it’s best to limit it. Whole, plant-based foods—like beans, lentils, quinoa, nuts, and fresh veggies—should make up most of your diet.
That doesn’t mean you have to ditch all convenience foods. Vegan pizzas and mock meats are fine in moderation, but relying on them daily can leave you feeling sluggish and bloated.
Stick to 80% whole foods and 20% treats. That way, you get the best of both worlds—good nutrition without feeling deprived. Smart choices will keep you feeling energized, satisfied, and thriving on a vegan diet.
Mistake #4: Making Vegan Cooking Too Complicated
You don’t need to be a gourmet chef to eat vegan. Many people quit because they think every meal needs to be a masterpiece.
The truth? Simple meals are the key to long-term success.
Stick to quick, easy, and familiar foods. A baked potato with beans, a stir-fry with tofu, or a lentil soup takes minutes to make. Love sandwiches? Swap out deli meat for hummus, avocado, or peanut butter.
Batch cooking can also save time. Cook big portions of rice, beans, or soup and store them for the week. Having ready-made meals keeps you from getting overwhelmed.
Save complex recipes—like homemade vegan cheese or sushi—for when you actually feel like cooking. Most of the time, simple meals will keep you full, satisfied, and stress-free.
Less time in the kitchen = more time to enjoy your vegan lifestyle.
Mistake #5: Feeling Isolated from Non-Vegan Friends
Going vegan doesn’t mean saying goodbye to your social life. But if you feel like the odd one out at dinner parties or family gatherings, it can be tough to stick with it.
The key? Be prepared and stay flexible. If you’re eating out, check menus in advance—most restaurants now offer solid vegan options.
If you’re heading to a friend’s house, bring a delicious vegan dish to share. You’d be surprised how many people love trying new foods!
Instead of making it a debate, keep things positive. If people ask questions, share your experience without pushing your views. Lead by example.
When friends see how easy and enjoyable veganism can be, they might even get curious.
You don’t have to give up your favorite traditions—just tweak them. Whether it’s a vegan barbecue at a cookout or dairy-free pizza on game night, you can still enjoy great food and great company.
Mistake #6: Losing Sight of Your ‘Why’
When the excitement of going vegan wears off, cravings, social pressure, or convenience can make you question your choice. That’s when remembering your “why” becomes crucial.
Are you doing it for the animals? Watch documentaries like Dominion or Earthlings to remind yourself of the impact.
Is it for health? Look at how plant-based diets reduce the risk of heart disease and boost longevity. Concerned about the environment? Veganism drastically lowers your carbon footprint.
Write down your reason and keep it visible—on your phone, fridge, or journal. When challenges arise, revisit it. Surround yourself with like-minded people, whether online or in-person, to stay motivated.
Veganism isn’t just about food—it’s about values. Staying connected to your purpose makes it easier to push past difficulties and stay committed for the long run.
Suggested read: 8 Eye-Opening Facts About Factory Farming That Will Make You Go Vegan
Conclusion
Sticking with veganism is easier when you avoid these common pitfalls. Plan your meals, get the right nutrients, keep recipes simple, and stay connected to your “why.” These small steps make a big difference in your long-term success.
There will be moments of uncertainty, but remember why you started. Whether it’s for your health, the animals, or the planet, every plant-based meal is a step in the right direction.
Veganism isn’t about being perfect—it’s about making progress. Stay prepared, stay flexible, and most importantly, enjoy the journey. You’re on the right path!