Each year, as the calendar flips to December 31st, many of us embark on a familiar ritual: penning resolutions in a notebook. We jot down aspirations like ‘Eat healthier,’ ‘Exercise more,’ or ‘Read more,’ often embellishing these with hopeful sketches of a transformed, shinier version of ourselves. It’s a deeply relatable scenario for anyone who’s ever set out with the best intentions, only to find the reality of January and February a little less… sparkling.
The common thread in these resolutions is often their vagueness, a distinct lack of measurable outcomes, and a quiet hope that this year will finally be the one. Then, around a month into the year, a new temptation emerges – perhaps a decadent new chocolate bar that directly challenges our commitment to ‘eating healthier.’ The internal battle commences, and it’s easy to feel defeated, thinking, “I can just start again next year.”
However, this all-or-nothing approach to goal-setting is precisely what a recent viral trend on TikTok is challenging. Imagine spilling a drop of coffee on a pristine white shirt. You wouldn’t simply pour the entire cup over it, would you? Instead, you’d likely try to tackle the small stain. This very principle is at the heart of the ‘vegan plus bacon’ theory, which advocates for a less rigid, more compassionate approach to achieving our goals.
Unpacking the ‘Vegan Plus Bacon’ Theory
The concept gained significant traction after TikTok creator @trailmixliz posted a simple yet profound statement: “‘I’d go vegan but bacon.’ So do it. Go vegan but bacon.” This seemingly straightforward advice resonated with millions, racking up over 2 million views and 300,000 likes. The comments section exploded with sentiments like, “Sometimes I forget free will is a thing,” and “People don’t realise you make the rules.” For many, it was a moment of profound realisation, a shedding of self-imposed limitations.
While the phrase itself is tied to veganism, the ‘vegan plus bacon’ (or ‘vegan plus cheese’) theory extends far beyond dietary choices. At its core, it’s a powerful rejection of perfectionism in goal-setting. It posits that by allowing ourselves a little flexibility and self-compassion, we can actually make more progress and avoid burnout.
In an era often dominated by “all or nothing” thinking – where we’re either early morning exercisers or lazy slouches, with no middle ground – the ‘vegan plus bacon’ theory offers a refreshing alternative. It encourages us to question the rigid rules we often impose on ourselves. What if, instead of striving for absolute adherence, we considered small compromises that make our goals more achievable? What if we allowed ourselves that one small indulgence or modification that makes the journey less arduous?
Applying the ‘Vegan Plus Bacon’ Theory to Your Life
The beauty of this theory lies in its adaptability. It doesn’t require a drastic overhaul or adherence to a strict dogma. Let’s explore how it can be applied to various aspects of life:
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Fitness Goals: You might not feel motivated for a full gym session. Instead of skipping it entirely, consider a less intense activity like stretching or a brisk walk. The key is to do something rather than nothing, maintaining momentum.
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Sleep Habits: Perhaps you’re trying to improve your sleep schedule but find yourself scrolling on your phone late at night. Instead of aiming for immediate abstinence, try taking your phone to a different room, so the scrolling isn’t happening right before you try to sleep. This small shift can break the association and make sleep more accessible.
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Social Habits: Wanting to cut back on alcohol might be your goal. However, a special celebration might call for a drink. The ‘vegan plus bacon’ approach would suggest enjoying that celebratory margarita without feeling like you’ve derailed your entire sober journey. It’s about acknowledging the occasion and returning to your goal afterwards.
The ‘vegan plus bacon’ theory doesn’t demand that your compromises be inherently “good for you” or even close to your ultimate objective. Think of these concessions as stepping stones, small victories that build confidence and prevent discouragement. A small, consistent effort is often more effective in the long run than an ambitious, all-or-nothing attempt that leads to burnout or boredom.
Making Progress, Not Perfection
Personally, I’ve found implementing this approach has significantly reduced my stress levels. For instance, my goal this year was to broaden my reading horizons and explore genres I typically avoid. However, I have an undeniable soft spot for cheesy romance novels.
By adopting the ‘vegan plus bacon’ mindset, I’ve started alternating between a new, challenging read and a guilty pleasure romance. This strategy keeps me engaged, prevents me from getting stuck in a rut, and actually motivates me to pick up the next book, whatever its genre.
Ultimately, the rules we set for ourselves are not immutable laws of nature. If a particular goal feels overwhelmingly difficult or leads to constant self-criticism, it might be time to re-evaluate. The ‘vegan plus bacon’ theory encourages us to be kinder to ourselves, to bend the rules when necessary, and to recognise that even a small step forward is still progress. Isn’t it always better to do something than to do nothing at all?
