lifetracking

Lifetracking, also known as self-tracking or quantified self, is a practice of collecting data about one's own life for the purpose of understanding and improving it. This involves using various tools and methods to measure and record aspects of personal behavior, health, productivity, and emotions. Devices like wearable fitness trackers, smartphone apps, and even simple journals can be used for lifetracking.

The data collected can range widely. Common metrics include steps taken, calories burned, sleep patterns, heart rate, mood, time spent on tasks, and consumption of food and drink. The underlying principle is that by making these aspects of life visible through data, individuals can gain insights that were previously unavailable. These insights can then inform decisions and actions aimed at achieving personal goals, such as improving fitness, managing stress, increasing efficiency, or simply gaining a deeper self-awareness.

Lifetracking can be a personal endeavor or a shared one, with communities and platforms dedicated to sharing experiences and data. While proponents highlight the potential for self-optimization and informed decision-making, critics raise concerns about privacy, the potential for obsession with data, and the risk of oversimplifying complex human experiences into quantifiable metrics. The practice continues to evolve with technological advancements and changing personal priorities.