I have definitely found slips and splurges to be easier to deal with now that I'm in maintenance. Whether I go off the plan for a day or a week, I gain a pound or two, which is gone within a couple of days of getting back on track.

Maybe it's emotionally easier: since I'm not trying to lose weight anymore, I don't feel the need to berate myself for the slightest step off the plan. It's just not a big deal.