The Great Lock-in
Is October the new January? This trend says yes, and honestly, I’m here for it.
So, I’m taking that energy and locking into the world of LinkedIn posting (again)… but doing it in my favorite medium: video!
Debs will be thrilled to know my degree from 20,000 years ago is finally earning its keep.
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We have all heard of Dry January and remember 75 Hard when that was going around a couple years ago? Well, have you heard of the great lock-in?
Gen Z is calling the Great Lock-in, Winter Arc 2.0 and it nearly broke Google. The idea? From now until the end of the year, you lock in on habits that will make you unrecognizable by 2026. Now, unlike rigid challenges, the Great Lock-in does not have strict rules.
It's more like, pick an area of your life, whether it's career, finances, relationships, fitness and go all in with hyper-discipline over the next few months. Think daily workouts, journaling, cooking at home, and yes, even building your personal brand.
The appeal is obvious. Why in the world would you wait until January 1st when you could start today and get a head start?
I mean, who doesn't love beginning something new in the fall? But here's the catch: Done wrong, it could easily slide into burnout territory. Especially if it becomes more about perfection and competing online.
Psychologist Dr. Kaitlyn Lehman puts it perfectly: "Transformation isn't about doing more. It's about reconnecting inward."
So if the Great Lock-in fuels resilience, play, and an intentional reset, amazing! If it means skipping some holiday joy in favor of a 5:00 AM cold shower, count me out.
So here's my take. Use the Great Lock-in as a nudge, not a punishment. Pick one or two areas that you want to improve, do it gently, and let that momentum carry you into the new year.
Are you in? If you were to lock in on one habit, what would it be? Let me know in the comments.
