Weighing In On A New Scale: Could this be ‘The End’ to the Number Obsession?


I remember one evening when I indulged in a lavish dinner at Urban Tadka, savoring the rich flavors of North Indian cuisine. The aroma of butter naan fresh from the tandoor, the creamy, spicy paneer tikka masala, and the decadent gulab jamun for dessert were impossible to resist. I savored every bite, feeling sheer bliss as I enjoyed the meal. But later that night, as I lay in bed, the guilt crept in. My stomach felt uncomfortably heavy, and my mind was filled with regret. I couldn’t help but worry about the extra pounds I might have gained, turning what was a delightful experience into a source of anxiety and self-criticism. This emotional rollercoaster made me realize how much my relationship with weight had influenced my joy of eating.


Back when I was five, every visit to the railway station was a mini-adventure. The highlight? The gigantic time machine-like structure that dispensed weight tickets for a penny. Every time we went, I made sure to ask for that penny just so I could step on the scale and eagerly await my weight slip. Those machines, with their old-world charm, seemed massive and almost magical to my young eyes.

Cut to today’s time, everything has changed. Digital scales at home, fitness apps tracking our every move, and health data at our fingertips.

Tired of the number game on your scale turning into a never-ending battle? You’re not alone. In fact, most people avoid weighing themselves altogether!

Imagine this: A revolutionary new weighing scale that’s ditching digits for something entirely different. Could this be the end of weight-related stress?

Imagine stepping on a scale and, instead of seeing a cold, hard number, you’re greeted by a visual journey through the animal kingdom. From a tiny butterfly representing your lightest self to a majestic elephant symbolizing your current weight, this scale transforms the weighing experience into a fascinating exploration.

Is this just a quirky concept, or is it a clever application of behavioral science? By replacing numbers with relatable images, this scale taps into our visual and emotional responses, making weight management more engaging and less intimidating.

Behavioral economist Dan Ariely’s numberless scale, Shapa, has already shown that removing numbers can significantly increase scale usage. People stepped on the Shapa scale six times a week on average, compared to the near-negligence of traditional scales.

Shapa’s success lies in its ability to provide adaptable feedback. It adjusts its response based on your weight goals, offering encouragement and support throughout your journey. Unlike traditional scales that treat everyone the same, Shapa understands that everyone’s path is unique.

So, is it time to ditch the numbers and embrace a healthier relationship with your weight? This new scale, along with innovations like Shapa, suggests a promising future where weight management becomes less about obsession and more about progress.

PS: Look…. this post is intended to spark a conversation and is written in a light-hearted tone. I understand that weight is a sensitive topic for many. However, with half the year already gone, it’s time to rethink our approach to weight management. Perhaps a fresh perspective, like a visually appealing scale, could motivate us to prioritize overall health and well-being.

What do you think? Could a numberless or image-based scale be the key to sustainable weight management? Share your thoughts in the comments below.