“Locking in” has become a popular phrase on social media, but what does it really mean? For some, it’s about focusing and enduring short-term pain for long-term gain – whether that’s building their body or business. Others use it as a motivational tool, like Dani, a 20-year-old student who says it helps her stay on track with her goals.
For Karagii, a professional content creator, “locking in” serves as a personal rallying cry to overcome sexism she faces while playing games online. She finds inspiration from TV shows and anime, where characters often go through transformative journeys.
But what does this phrase really mean? Linguist Adam Aleksic says its origins are unclear, but it’s been used in the African American community since the early 2000s. Despite its growing popularity, “locking in” didn’t make it onto the word of the year lists for 2025.
The phrase has become a way to connect with others and stay motivated. For Dani and her friends, telling each other to “lock in” on boring days can be a fun way to bond over their shared goal-setting struggles. Whether used as a serious tool or a lighthearted joke, “locking in” has become a popular phrase that resonates with many people.
In short, “locking in” is about focusing on your goals and pushing through challenges – whether that’s building a business, achieving fitness goals, or overcoming obstacles like sexism.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cm2w79447vvo