I became vegetarian in January of 2022. I have always loved animals and did a lot of research on the meat industry as a whole before I finally decided to commit to being a vegetarian. My dad is a huge foodie so when I first cut out meat from my diet, he would cook all kinds of new dishes, which really helped expand my pallet. Being vegetarian is one of the most intentional choices I’ve made. For me, it’s about aligning my everyday habits with my values. Food is something we interact with constantly, and choosing not to eat meat feels like a meaningful way to reduce harm and be more mindful about what I consume.
Sustainable living for me is making eco-conscious decisions in the small things. I have been making small habits for a while because I bevel every small action amounts to bigger change. I always try and recycle, that was probably the first thing I started doing. From there I looked into food sustainability. I try and keep reusable straws and silverware with me for when I go out to eat or get take out. Everyday makeup and skincare products was a bit tricky but I have tried being more conscious as to which brands aim for sustainability. These often use natural, clean products so for me its a win-win. I care about protecting the environment and being thoughtful about my impact on the planet. While I’m not perfect, I try to make choices that are more eco-friendly and responsible whenever possible.
One of the best ways to foster a successful community is by shopping local. I love supporting small businesses. My dad himself is a small business owner. I know how hard it can be to keep up with big companies but most small business prioritize good quality materials. I believe this is what sets them apart and is one of the many reasons to shop small. Most of my jewelry, that I do not make myself, I buy from small creators in my town. I love buying local art and San Antonio has so many talented artists and events showcasing local artists.