Lock It Down: Gen Z’s Latest Trend Is… Staying Home?
Oh, the internet. Just when you think you’ve seen it all, a new “thing” emerges from the digital ether, threatening to redefine our very existence. And this week, dear trend-spotters, we’re not talking about another bizarre food combo or a dance routine that makes you question humanity’s collective motor skills. No, we’re talking about something far more revolutionary: staying home.
Yes, you heard that right. Behold, “The Great Lock-In,” or as some are calling it, the “September Lock-In.” Apparently, Gen Z has decided that the ultimate flex, the pinnacle of self-care, and the zenith of financial responsibility is to… well, lock themselves in. For an entire month. Or more. Think less “Netflix and chill” and more “Netflix and definitely no chill, just self-improvement and savings, thank you very much.”
Suddenly, FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) has been replaced by JOMO (Joy Of Missing Out), which has then been replaced by a planned, strategic, and hashtag-driven intention to miss out. This isn’t just about saving money (though let’s be real, going out these days requires a second mortgage); it’s about “realigning,” “glow-ups,” and avoiding the dreaded “soft life” perpetuated by us tired millennials. My friends, we’ve gone full circle. Being a hermit is now aspirational.
Why is this trending now? Perhaps it’s a desperate plea from bank accounts, a collective burnout from endless scrolling, or maybe Gen Z just realized that their parents’ idea of a “fun night” (i.e., not leaving the house) actually had some merit. Whatever the reason, if your social calendar suddenly looks as empty as your avocado toast budget, congratulations! You’re not anti-social; you’re just ahead of the trend. Or, like me, you’ve been doing it for years and now it finally has a cool name. Guess I was “locking in” before it was cool. Who knew?
