Each of us deals with change differently. Some go all out and never look back. Others like the slow and steady approach, making incremental changes while keeping sight of the final goal. Zig-zaggers take a few steps forward, another one back, one off to the side, and a couple more straight ahead. And then there are those who work themselves into a frenzy and feel paralyzed by the thought of changing old habits. If you’re one of the above or somewhere in between, try these easy steps and make the transition to vegetarian eating fun and painless.

#1 • Try three days a week for the first two weeks. Substitute a couple of ingredients in your favorite dishes to make them animal-free. Can’t get enough spaghetti with meat sauce? Smother your preferred pasta with tangy marinara and throw on some sautéed garlic, mushrooms, or peppers for an extra kick. Love beef tacos? Swap the ground beef with TVP or meatless crumbles (click here for grocery cart ideas) and spoon on a dollop of guacamole instead of sour cream. Toss on chopped veggies like greens, onions, and tomatoes, and voila! You’ve got a delicious treat just waiting for you to take that first bite. Making simple substitutions in your favorite recipes is an easy way to get used to eating vegetarian food.

#2 • Now try five days a week for another two weeks. Add a couple more days of compassionate eating so you’re a five-times-a-week vegetarian for two weeks. Pick up some new-to-you vegetarian products from your local grocery’s “natural foods” section or the neighborhood health food store and get creative in the kitchen. If you need help finding a tasty recipe to go with the ingredient or product, click here for fantastic (and free!) recipes! If you prefer eating out, visit your favorite restaurant and order a vegetarian dish (click here for some dining out tips) or check out an animal-friendly establishment and sample something new. It’s never been easier or more convenient to enjoy delicious vegetarian fare.

#3 • So, you’ve been a near-vegetarian for a whole month. Congratulations! By rounding out your week with two more vegetarian days, you’ve made it! Give yourself a pat on the back! You’re making wonderfully positive changes not only for yourself and the environment, but for the animals, too.