As the year winds down from September to December, a growing number of professionals are embracing “lock-in season,” a social media trend where individuals commit to advancing their fitness, financial, or career aspirations before the new year.
For Khadyajah Jenkins, a former tech recruiter and current doctoral student at Penn State, this trend mirrors the corporate world’s Q4 focus, repackaged for social media. With over 60,000 TikTok followers, Jenkins views lock-in season as a prime opportunity for “intentional ideation” to plan for promotions, platform growth, or other ambitions.
Executive coach Allie Stark describes lock-in season as a period of heightened “discipline and momentum.” With only four months left, many professionals feel a surge of urgency to meet their annual goals. “It’s that drive to say, ‘I set these goals for the year—how do I make them happen now?’” Stark explains.
Career Focus During Lock-In Season
Career advancement is a key priority for many young professionals, according to Amanda Augustine, a career coach and spokesperson for Resume.AI. The company’s analysis of lock-in season social media content reveals workers updating LinkedIn profiles, documenting accomplishments, and honing skills to prepare for the year ahead.
In today’s competitive job market, professionals are prioritizing job security. “With layoffs in the headlines, people are asking, ‘How do I make myself indispensable?’” Augustine says. Many are seizing new opportunities to enhance their value and adaptability.
Navigating Lock-In Season Effectively
While lock-in season inspires intense focus, experts warn of potential downsides. Stark notes that the trend often stems from a desire for control amid uncertainty, but overworking can lead to burnout. “It’s easy to dive in headfirst, but pushing too hard risks exhaustion,” she cautions.
To stay sustainable, Stark emphasizes setting realistic, non-linear goals. “Real change doesn’t happen overnight,” she says. “It’s about steady progress, not perfection.”
Jenkins echoes this, criticizing “gimmicky” social media advice that overlooks long-term planning. She advocates for a structured approach, recommending two-week sprints of focused effort. After each sprint, reflect on results and adjust plans for the next cycle. “This strategic framework fosters intentionality,” Jenkins says. She also stresses the importance of pausing to reflect: “You need time to clarify what you truly want.”
Balancing Ambition and Well-Being
While lock-in season encourages a strong finish to the year, experts advise against overloading yourself. Stark reminds professionals that meaningful progress takes time. “It’s great to start the fall with motivation, but check in with yourself regularly,” she says.
By blending disciplined sprints with intentional reflection, lock-in season can be a powerful time to advance your goals—without sacrificing sustainability or well-being.