What is a Flexitarian?

To be honest, I thought I invented the term flexitarian.

I’ve been everything you can think of since my protest against eating meat in 2006. I’ve gone vegan, vegetarian, pescatarian, and at this point, I pretty much flex between all three. Naturally, that’s what I’ve been calling myself for years.

Depending on how I’m feeling, what I’m craving, or what my current goals are, I like to switch it up. Some weeks are fully plant-based and sometimes raw. Other weeks, I might add in seafood or a little dairy, especially when I’m out dining enjoying a great meal.

According to Merriam-Webster, a flexitarian is:

“one whose normally meatless diet occasionally includes meat or fish.”

I agree wholeheartedly. For me, my normally meatless diet occasionally includes fish and a tiny bit of dairy, mostly when I’m dining out. Because let’s be honest: I love the experience of dining. I want to taste all the things, within the boundaries I’ve set for myself.

Also… Chicago doesn’t have many fine-dining or gourmet vegan restaurants the way New York does. Some of the best vegan meals I’ve ever had were in New York. Theyre creative, meticulous, thoughtful, and so delicious. Until Chicago catches up, I give myself permission to flex.

Being a flexitarian makes me feel like I don’t have to be just one thing. I’m allowed to crave and desire what I want, while still honoring the limits I know work for my body and values. Since I’ve found a balance with the way I eat, I don’t feel guilty about anything on my plate.

The more I live this way, the more I see how flexitarian thinking shows up beyond food. It mirrors how I think about my career, creativity, and dreams. I don’t have to stick to only one lane or one title. I can expand my palate, in the kitchen and in life and I refuse to stay stuck doing the same thing forever.

JOY 

FLEX

RULES

• Mostly plants

• Room for pleasure

• Boundaries you choose

• No guilt, just guidance