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About this quote

What does it mean?
Johnson finds avoiding something entirely easier than moderating it.
In plain terms
Not doing something is easier than doing it in moderation.
What can you take from it?
Abstinence can be easier than moderation.

Where it applies

  • dieting
  • addiction
  • habit formation

Putting it to work

  • choose complete avoidance
  • set clear boundaries

Questions to consider

  • Which is harder, quitting or cutting back?
  • Why is moderation difficult?

Another view

Moderation works better for many people.

More from Samuel Johnson

  1. Books that you may carry to the fire, and hold readily in your hand, are the most useful after all.

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  2. Fly fishing may be a very pleasant amusement; but angling or float fishing I can only compare to a stick and a string, with a worm at one end and a fool at the…

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  3. He who praises everybody praises nobody.

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