Why do we always make the same mistakes?

Why is it that we humans sometimes keep making the same mistakes?

A friend of mine insists her recent breakup was due to her high demands of attention and affection, and it's something that she has been grappling with for some time. She knows that this is something she has to work on to ensure smoother relationships in future but nevertheless, she falls into the same pattern every time.

Another friend asks why she always falls for the "bad boys" when she knows they won't work out, and then she dates the "good guys" only to end up feeling frustrated because they aren't up to "par" with her standards.

As for me, why do I cook things that Kimmy obviously doesn't like to eat. Why do I resort to hysterics whenever we have an argument instead of speaking calmly like a sane person. And why do I always throw away the bread packaging when there's obviously a freebie promotion that I know of?

A google on the question above brought up an interesting page from wikihow.com. (I never knew there was a wiki to how-tos) Here's an excerpt on how to avoid repeating mistakes:

1. Make sure that the mistakes you are making are all that bad in the first place. It might be that you just think poorly of yourself.
2. Write it down. Physically making a note of things and leaving it where you can see it will make a difference. It is like making a contract with yourself.
3. Find a replacement. When you feel like you are about to do something stupid find something else to do instead.
4. Think things out. Always think "why am I doing this?", or "what is my purpose?".
5. Come to acceptance. Some people will just never change and you might be one of them. Sorry about your luck.
6. YOU CAN ALWAYS CHANGE!!!
7. "SOMETIMES YOU HAVE TO LET GO OF WHO YOU WERE TO BECOME WHO YOU WILL BE"

Read full article here.

Perhaps it's in our DNA to fail, fail and fail again, or that God created us so weak so that we can rely on Him. In any case, if you are one who suffers from this syndrome as well, the best thing to do is probably to post stickies everywhere around you to remind yourself to not make the same mistakes again. I think I should start now, with one that reminds me not to go to bed so late and end up not being able to wake up early for a jog. :\