When I wanna check the scale, I do something else... check cnn.com, digg.com, look at a web comic, have a glass of water, text message a friend, etc. Usually it gets my mind off it. This way I know when I DO check the scale the gains will be huge!!!!!
I love your idea for going upstairs more often. Thats EXACTLY the kind of rule that puts exercise right into everyday life. Good thinking!!