Why Tracking Is the Gateway to Change

📊 You can’t improve what you don’t measure.

Author

Selim Uysal
May 14, 2025

Hi friend,

If you’ve ever tried to build a new habit, break an old one, or simply understand your daily rhythms, you’ve probably heard this phrase:

“What gets measured, gets managed.”

And it’s true.

Tracking is one of the most underrated tools in behavior change. It gives you awareness, accountability, and most importantly—data.

You can’t change what you can’t see.

Most of your habits are already being tracked

The good news? You don’t need a spreadsheet or a bullet journal to start tracking. Most of it is already happening:

  • Screen time: Your phone tracks how many hours you spend on it daily.

  • Steps & movement: Your smartwatch or phone logs every walk, workout, or lazy day.

  • Weight & health metrics: Many smart scales sync directly to your phone, giving you automatic data without effort.

  • Sleep patterns: With tools like Oura Ring, Fitbit, or Apple Health, you can track your sleep quality without lifting a finger.

The point is; you don’t need more apps or effort.

You just need to pay attention.

Why tracking works

Here’s what tracking actually helps you do:

  • Build awareness – You can’t change a habit you’re not aware of.

  • Spot patterns – Most habits live in loops. Tracking helps you find the cues and triggers.

  • Adjust direction – When you notice where you’re off, you can course-correct faster.

  • Feel progress – Even small improvements become visible, which fuels motivation.

This week, I’ve been reviewing my screen time and sleep data. My goal? Regulate both for better energy and deeper focus. Seeing the numbers made me realize how much late-night scrolling was hurting my mornings.

The role of AI in habit tracking

AI tools are now stepping in to do more than just track.

They analyze, summarize, and even predict what’s affecting your progress. From recommending personalized routines to suggesting the best time to sleep or move, we’re entering an age where habit support is smarter and more intuitive.

If you’re already wearing a tracker or using a notes app—start reviewing your data.

If you’re not, start small.

Track one thing for one week—and reflect.

Your turn

What’s one habit you’re currently tracking (or want to start tracking)?

Let me know by replying—I’d love to hear what you’re working on.

📌 Personally, I’ve been tracking my sleep data to improve my sleep habits and regulate my energy throughout the day. If you have any tips or recommendations, I’m all ears!

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Thanks for reading!

Selim

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