Saying “No” Works If You Repeat It; Why You Should Mediate Anyway; And How One Rep Of This Exercise Daily Will Make You Fitter

After four quick and one-sided arguments, I’m almost always good to go, and whatever meaningless desire passes.

Once doesn’t work.

Not for me, anyway. And not for even one of my seven dogs.

Twice? Not really, no. And not usually three times, either.

For me, it’s four. Four is the sweet spot.

That’s how many times I have to tell myself “no” before I actually listen.

It goes like this.

“I really want cookies.”

“No.” Then, about ten minutes later.

“You’ve done so good all week, Josh. Go eat some delicious chocolate chips.”

“I said, no.” Five minutes after that.

“What’s the point of all this? What’s all this fitness for? Can you just reward yourself…