Nails jump on you

When it's time to clip your fingernails, you don't get any notice. One morning you wake up, and all of a sudden your nails have grown to a length that they are bothersome. Never have I thought, "Wow, my nails might have to be cut tomorrow, or two days from now." They always all of a sudden just need it, like a trigger is switched in my body. Why is the difference between too long and just fine such a thin line?

They are not like other periodic grooming needs. When I need a haircut, I usually look at myself one to two weeks ahead of time ahead a time and realize I'm going to need a haircut coming up soon. When I need to shave my beard, I notice it begins to itch ever so slowly.

Is it that nails being too long is just too frustrating to deal with, while a slightly shaggy beard or lengthy hair are bearable?