As far as I can tell, "to take the easy way out" is not the right description for the OP. He just did something that helps him, just like exercising or listening to music or having sex. To take the easy way out as you put it probably means to give up higher/future goals for an immediate rewards. His point is that he didn't give up anything. If you want to attack him, do it there, we're more then eager for good arguments here.