When he complains, don't solve — listen, empathize, ask "what do you need from me?".

Write 15 min about best version of self in 5 years — you may see self.

Read draft aloud. Every stumble = sentence needing edit.

Repeat the same refusal in the same words calmly, no matter how the other person reshapes the pressure.

Say no in three sentences: thanks, refusal, closing — with no "sorry" or justification.

Memorize one 7-word refusal sentence and rehearse it until it emerges automatically under pressure.

Say "no, I can't" — complete sentence. No explanation, no apology.

When he opens sensitive topic, say "tell me more" vs reply.

In few-shot, deliberate variety (positive/negative/edge case) matters more than count.