Gen Z’s new obsession: “Locking in” for focus, discipline, and self-control

A new trend called “locking in” is spreading fast across social media. From Instagram reels to TikTok videos, Gen Z users are declaring that they are “locking in” for the rest of the year — meaning they are cutting distractions, setting goals, and focusing on becoming their best selves. The idea has become a popular lifestyle theme, especially among young people who are trying to bring more structure and focus into their lives.

According to Google Trends, searches for the phrase “locking in” have reached their highest point this year. The term is now used to describe a period of total focus and discipline. Influencers are posting videos of early morning routines, gym sessions, and journaling habits, all under the caption “Locking in for winter.” It’s a mix of motivation and aesthetic lifestyle, where discipline is not only practiced but also shared online as part of personal branding.

The phrase “locking in” means staying focused and avoiding distractions to reach a goal. Unlike older challenges such as the “75 Hard Challenge,” which focused on complete physical and mental transformation, this trend is more about building daily consistency and control. It gives people a sense of purpose and peace in an online world full of noise and comparison.

Psychologist Arpita Kohli from PSRI Hospital says that “locking in” is Gen Z’s way of fighting digital distraction. “Gen Z has grown up in a world of constant online activity, where attention is always divided,” she explains. “This trend is a rebellion against that. It’s a way to take back control of focus, productivity, and self-discipline. And by sharing it online, they make personal discipline a group experience.”

This trend has also given rise to new digital tools. One example is Tag Team, an accountability app created to help users stay consistent with their goals. The app pairs people with partners who share similar targets. Its co-founder, Divij Meh, explains, “Gen Z doesn’t lack ambition; we struggle with consistency because focus feels lonely. Tag Team makes staying disciplined a team effort.”

While the “locking in” movement promotes good habits, experts warn that it can also create new pressures. Kohli notes that the trend can be both healthy and stressful. “It helps people create structure and mindfulness,” she says, “but if it turns into a competition or comparison game, it can lead to burnout and guilt.”

Many experts believe this trend shows how Gen Z connects identity with visibility. As Kohli puts it, “Gen Z wants to be seen as focused, productive, and disciplined. It’s not only about improving oneself but also about showing others that improvement. It reflects a need for stability and control in a fast-changing digital world.”

The trend is also linked to a larger shift in how young people view self-improvement. Instead of big, once-a-year resolutions, “locking in” focuses on smaller, daily habits like waking up early, drinking water, exercising, or studying consistently. These habits are then shared online in carefully edited clips with soft music, aesthetic lighting, and motivational captions — making discipline itself look beautiful.

But this brings a quiet irony. The same generation that is trying to focus more is still spending long hours watching videos about focus. As one social media user joked, “I’ve been watching people lock in for two hours — when will I start?”

In many ways, “locking in” reflects Gen Z’s constant balance between self-control and online connection. It shows a desire for purpose and calm in an age of endless scrolling. Whether this focus turns into real discipline or just another social media trend remains to be seen.

For now, the “locking in” trend reminds us of a simple truth — in a world full of distractions, focus has become a new form of freedom.