Treehugger has a nice post today that ties together one of my favorite ideas — accounting for intangible behaviors through their measurable aspects. Examples include Google trend analysis, the Wattson energy monitor, and Nike + iPod, which is the peg for Treehugger’s post.

I think there is something in accounting for intangible use or consumption – like exercising or eating less – as a means of reinforcing behaviour change. Or even accounting for tangible consumption. Without these measures it’s very hard to see the value of your efforts and or begin to rationalize the impact of your behaviours.

Here, let me explain it to you.

See that newspaper under his arm? He’s going to the bathroom. His secret hiding place is the bathroom…which isn’t that great of a secret hiding place. Kind of like having a disguise that’s just a pair of glasses.