Often we make these choices when in a bad state of mind or out of pure ignorance. Temporary good feelings seem to outweigh long-term satisfaction or benefits.

I try to remember that the weight of discipline is in ounces, while the weight of regret weights tons.

Impulse control, context, state of mind.

Training self discipline can help. One small change I've made semi-recently is to take cold showers. It's difficult at first but soon you learn mind over matter, controlled breathing, and the anxiety which goes with it initially dissipates. This then translates into other areas of your life. As middle_pillar insinuates, practising mindfulness is a big step in the right direction.

Choices we made are influenced by many factors. Sometimes the easy way seems the best choice.

I think the core problem is that we become divided; we have needs that are not being met, and the part of ourselves that wants to meet those needs comes into conflict with the part of ourselves that knows better. Sometimes one side wins, sometimes the other side wins.

The result is that we periodically meet our needs in a half-assed way that later brings regret.

The solution is not to fight yourself, but to get straightened out so that all your internal parts are on the same page and are all working together again. This is easier said then done.

Probably something to do with not having a clear policy that balances present and future benefits, focusing on one thing at the expense of neglecting other considerations, and being stupid in general (compared to some hypothetical smarter organism).

More importantly, I like the green theme you have going.

Because those 15 beers taste great and they go down so easy.