The new year is about change and possibility, and it presents a chance to better ourselves. For their resolutions, many people focus on diet, since our daily food choices can greatly affect both our lives and the world. And whether out of concern for animals suffering at factory farms or an interest in healthy eating, more people than ever are choosing to eat vegan.

Whether your goal is to add more vegan dishes to your diet or to leave animal products off your plate for good, here are a few things to remember if eating vegan is your new year’s resolution:

1. Veganize a few of your favorite meals.

From ice cream, cheese, and butter to burgers, bacon, and hot dogs, there are mouthwatering vegan versions of all your favorite foods. With a few simple swaps, we can easily enjoy many of our go-to recipes. Plus, tons of popular foods are already vegan!

2. Don’t worry.

You might get a lot of questions from friends and family after you become vegan, and you don’t need to have all the answers. Just be honest and speak from experience. Want to learn more? Here are some pointers for having a conversation about veganism with a meat eater.

3. Make a meal plan.

From budget-friendly recipes to easy microwaveable lunches, chooseveg.com is loaded with helpful info, including this seven-day meal plan.

4. Keep it affordable.

Some of the cheapest foods on the planet are vegan, including rice, beans, legumes, pasta, and all kinds of fruits and veggies. While there are a few specialty items you should keep stocked, it’s best to stick to these staples. Here are a few more tips for eating vegan on a budget.

5. Understand allergen warnings. “May contain” does not mean a product isn’t vegan.

Under every ingredient list, common allergens are listed in bold. Keep in mind that if a label says “may contain” milk or eggs, it doesn’t necessarily mean that the product contains them. This warning is for people with life-threatening allergies.

6. Focus on pragmatism over purity.

Being vegan isn’t about being perfect, but it is one of the best steps we can take to help end animal cruelty. If you eat something that isn’t vegan, don’t beat yourself up—you can always start fresh at your next meal!

By choosing healthy and humane plant-based foods, we can live in line with our values and take a stand for a kinder world. Ready to learn more? Click here for meal ideas, delicious recipes, and tips on making the switch.