An Economist article from May of last year entitled Counting Every Moment invites us into the world of self-quantification.  The practice of “self-tracking” our daily activities using technology.  Let me start by saying “I’m a  big fan.”  I have a strange compulsion to self quantify.  Maybe it has something to do with the sense of control one gets from believing they can change through logic and reason.  Those extra five pounds can come off if one meticulously tracks every bite. 

I’m a sucker for new apps or websites that help you keep track of yourself.  My Evernote account has notes for daily writing, meals, and Crossfit sessions.  While my self quantification benefits me, particularly when I’ve gotten off track in some key area of life.  But at what point do we get so caught up in the quantifying that we ignore the underlying dynamics that impact behavior.  We can’t quantify impulses.  I myself can get frustrated at my inability to meet goals, particularly when I’ve “quantified” myself.  How much does our obsessive quantification lead us to disappointment when rationality proves inadequate to conquer or more complex and mysterious demons.