According to Chapter 17, why do people struggle to choose the path of Shreya even if they know it's better for them?

Chapter 17 of the Sai Satcharitra elaborates on why choosing Shreya (the path of salvation) over Preya (the path of worldly joy) is so difficult. Even when both paths are presented and the choice is within a person's control, a dull-witted person is often conquered by Preya and embraces it. This is because, as long as there is an obsession with worldly objects, wealth, and status, and the senses crave these things, Preya remains sweet and alluring. The text compares the wise person to a swan that can separate milk from water, clinging only to Shreya. However, for the less discerning, the blend of the two is confusing, and they are easily drawn to the immediate gratification offered by Preya.