Why do we often fail to keep promises to ourselves, but succeed in making/keeping promises to others?

Hey guys,

So I think I want to open a topic for discussion, that I think is pretty crucial, in fact, I think it's one of the most important in life.

I often accomplish great tasks and make productive promises at work that I keep and excel in, however when it comes to my own "self" it's a different story....I make smart promises, healthy  and productive - ones that will improve me greatly, even setup processes to catch mess-ups and this and that, but then easily break them....why is that? Do I need to hire someone that will punch me in the face each time I screw up? As funny as it sounds, I know I am not the only one with this issue.  What are some things we can do to try to keep those promises? I mean, it's not just weight loss, it could be promises for reading a book, going to fitness club, learning piano, learning spanish, etc, etc...



Regards,
Leon