How do I stay vegetarian at work dinners and client events without being awkward?

tell the organiser early, choose vegetarian options calmly, and never make others feel judged.

Vegetarianism is common worldwide now, and most restaurants and caterers can provide good options if asked in advance. When you receive an invitation, simply reply with your dietary requirement, as you would for an allergy. If you avoid onion, garlic or eggs, mention that too.

At the table, order confidently without long explanations. If someone asks why, a short, friendly answer works: “I’m vegetarian for religious and personal reasons.” If a shared dish arrives, you can eat the sides, bread and salads, and eat properly before or after if needed.

The tradition values ahiṁsā, but it equally values humility and courtesy. Avoid lecturing colleagues or commenting on their plates. Quietly keeping your own discipline, while being warm and relaxed with others, earns far more respect than an argument.

Source: ahiṁsā and courtesy — common family teaching

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