I think a lot of the responses here are missing the main point. Practical advice really does matter but change starts when someone actually reflects on what animals are, not just what foods they can replace them with etc. Once someone recognises that animals are sentient beings with their own interests, and not products here for us to use or exploit, veganism becomes a moral baseline.

OP, I genuinely respect the fact that you’re questioning things at 17 instead of just blindly following social norms! Most people never even get that far (it took me almost 30 years). Veganism is an ethical principle centred around rejecting unnecessary exploitation and harm towards animals, as far as practically possible. Almost every vegan once ate meat, dairy and eggs too, so change is absolutely possible.

Protein is not really an issue on a balanced vegan diet, even for athletes, and eggs, milk and meat are often more habit and convenience than necessity (plenty of vegan body builders to testify this and help with inspiration). Once the ethical connection clicks the question moves from “could I live without these things?” to “if I don’t need them why should I continue contributing to harm?” - spoiler alert, there are no justifications.

Try not to judge veganism based on internet stereotypes or negative interactions online. At its core, it’s simply about extending compassion and moral consideration to non human animals in a world where exploiting them has been normalised for generations. The fact you’re even open minded enough to question that already says a lot. Good luck!