Soon we start rationalizing that this is not a good time of year, what with cold weather and our numerous obligations. When spring comes, we'll really get into shape. Thus, we make another promise to ourselves, and, now free of guilt, put off habit change for another few months. Chances are that when spring arrives, we will have another temporary surge of motivation, only to abandon it within a few weeks. One reason is that we become discouraged when results don't come quickly enough, or when we find that we are not necessarily happier because of them.
Behavioral change requires sustained effort and commitment.
It is also typically accompanied by physical discomfort. For example, reducing food, alcohol or nicotine intake from a level to which you have become accustomed, results in cravings. Forcing yourself to get off your cozy chair to exercise is often difficult when you're tired. And of course, it's easy to procrastinate until tomorrow, so that you can rationalize not disciplining yourself today. Therefore, if you are going to make New Year's resolutions this year, be sure you are ready for the challenge.