Self-Optimisation and the Technologically Mediated Self: Balancing Self-Care and Self-Control

Abstract

This paper presents an analysis of technologically mediated self-relations that materialise in the use of self-tracking (ST) devices and data to monitor and track one’s bodily, emotional, habitual, or productivity-related aspects. Based on ethnographical research and postphenomenological framing, two analytical concepts are employed: self-care and self-control. While seemingly opposed, both simultaneously appear and co-exist in ST practices that transcend mere self-optimisation. The dialectic interplay between self-control and self-care provides uncertainty-reducing confirmation of prior hunches, emotionally relieving reminders and algorithmic recommendations, detailed data that might be helpful in the future for pattern recognition or treatments, and an orientation that offers safety with regard to current and future decisions. Self-tracking technologies can be seen as assisting self- and life-regulation that can ultimately support personal balance and harmony. The article contributes theoretically to ST literature by extending the concept of self-optimisation to include the balancing of needs and desires between self-responsibility and gratification, goal-tracking and self-affirmation, discipline and letting go.