The Myth of ‘Locking In’

By SOS4Students Coach Marco

I usually try not to turn my head to the side like a confused German Shepard when a student busts out some new slang. I’m still relevant … right? Lately, though, there have been an increasing number of students using the phrase “locking in” (or some variant), such as “I just need to lock in” and “Yeah, this week I am going to lock in.”

Just Words?

“Locking in” is one phrase I can’t just let slide. It’s similar to the beef I have with parents telling their kids to “try harder.”

When it comes to “locking in,” is there a plan, or are these just words? What does “locking in” even mean? Focused? Determined? Sitting in a silent room with study candles and lo-fi beats for ambiance?

The truth is, most of the time, “locking in” is a vague promise to future-you—an imaginary version of yourself who suddenly has more discipline, better habits, and a perfectly color-coded planner.

A Systematic Approach

Instead of “locking in,” you should “lock down” … systems.

Need to get work done? Ask yourself these questions:

When? 

• Start with the due date
• Estimate how long the task will take
• Work backwards in your schedule, filling in gaps with this task.

Where? 

• For this task, do you work better at home in silence or at a coffee shop with friends?

What needs to happen first? 

• A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

What’s the backup plan when it all goes off the rails?

• Plan for the unexpected. The best way to do this is to have gaps in your schedule you can dedicate to tasks that fall through the cracks.

Have a framework:

• A start time that doesn’t shift every 10 minutes
• A checklist that separates the “must dos” from the “nice to dos”
• A way to track progress because, yes, watching yourself check boxes does feel good
• A support system that holds you accountable even when you’re tired, distracted, or would rather scroll TikTok.

“Locking in” is just the start of the conversation. Now, let’s move past the myth and get into action—because consistency beats intensity every time.

So, next time you hear, “I’m gonna lock in,” ask, “Cool. But how?”
 

We Are Here to Help

SOS4Students helps families and students navigate executive function issues, test prep, and more, enabling them to reach their full potential. If you have questions about coaching, advocacy, or other ways in which we can help, contact us today at (510) 531-4767 or .