Lock In!
Working on Something new!
Where did summer go?! Can you believe it’s already September?! I’m so glad I took a vacation this year—it was much needed after the year I’ve had walking through loss and grief. Looking back, I realize my trip was truly a God-send. Taking the time off helped me move through the heartbreak and heaviness that’s been surrounding me, and now that I’m back, I feel like the best version of myself yet! So wiith that, I’m ready to LOCK IN!
In case you haven’t heard, there’s a new social media trend called “Lock In.” From September 1st through the end of the year, the idea is to buckle down and get serious about all the things you’ve been talking about doing but haven’t actually done yet.
I love this concept for so many reasons. For one, I just celebrated my birthday, which has always felt like my personal new year. I’m older, wiser, more rooted, and divinely inspired than ever before. When I look back at this past year, it’s been full—my mother’s transition, a breakup from a six-year relationship, letting go of toxic family and friends. It’s been a year of pruning, purging, and shedding. And yet, by the goodness, grace, and love of God, I’m still standing. Marvin Sapp wasn’t lying when he sang “Never Would Have Made It”— because truly, I would have lost it all if it wasn’t for God and the amazing people He placed in my life.
Because of all that, I come to you now with clarity, deeper self love, and so much gratitude. For most of my adult life, when I set my mind to do something, I’ve done it. But I’ll be honest—life’s ups, lessons, and even just getting comfortable have dimmed some of my fire. And while I don’t have the same drive I did in my 20s and 30s, I ask myself—Safia, what else do you have to do? No kids, no relationship—so why not, as the Bible says, get about your Father’s business and do more of the things that have been on your heart.
One of those things is my Substack newsletter and audio blog, “Where I Find Myself.” I recorded the first episode while sitting on my best friend’s patio in Orlando, taking in a beautiful night that reminded me of my time living there. That phrase—“Where I Find Myself”—came to me, and it felt like another sign from God. Since Find Your Lite is about the journey of discovering the fire inside yourself, it all connected. And now, this Lock-In trend feels like the accountability I need to follow through.
Outfit of the day!
One of the biggest parts of my birthday ritual is reflection. I never want to be in the same place I was the year before. I aspire to move forward, grow in self-awareness, and elevate higher. A year ago, I was deep in grief, angry, and in disbelief. I’m not there anymore. Do I still miss my mom? Absolutely. My God, I miss her every day. But staying in that same space of mourning would leave me stuck—and that’s not what she’d want for me. Now, I choose to use that grief as fuel, trusting that God is leading me through it.
So if you’re in a place where you’re ready to lock in and want accountability, this trend might be exactly what you need.
I’ve put together a list of the things I’m locking in on—take what resonates, and let’s commit to making 2025 our best year yet!
The Lock In List September 1-December 31st
1. A Consistent Workout Routine
This can be anything from mindful movement to strength training—whatever your body needs, just do it consistently.
2. Tap in with God
When’s the last time you prayed, went to church, or read your Bible? I suggest first thing in the morning and/or before bed—set the tone and end the day with Him.
3. Listen to Empowering Podcasts
Tap out of gossip and bad news. Tune into something that supports the life you want to create.
4. Catch Up with Friends Who Are About Something
Who in your circle is positive, ambitious, and focused on growth? Link up with them more. Energy is contagious—get around the right people.
5. Detox from Recreational Drugs & Alcohol
Clearer mind, better sleep, no hangovers, deeper clarity. Period.
6. Manage Your Spending
Do you really need that “must-have” thing they’re selling? Probably not. Save that money, put it toward your next trip, or invest it. Get your MONEY right.
7. Read More
Doom scrolling is a time thief. We’re all guilty, but swapping out scrolling for reading has made me more productive—hence this post!
8. Fall Cleaning
Get rid of those 100 plastic takeout containers. Clean out the fridge. Donate clothes you don’t wear. Make room for the new season of your life.
9. Go Out with Intention (and Know When to Go Home)
Ask yourself: Why am I going to this event? What’s my purpose there? Who do I want to connect with? Being at every scene is overrated—give people a chance to miss you, then pop out with purpose.
10. Rest
The most underrated lock-in of them all. Rest lets you reflect, recover, and realign. Life has been a lot—mentally, emotionally, and physically. Protect your energy. You’re the only YOU, so take care of yourself.
So that’s my Lock-In List! These aren’t just habits, they’re life-giving choices that keep me aligned with who I am and who I’m becoming. The beauty of this season is that we don’t have to wait for January 1st to reset—our time is now. As I lean into discipline, faith, and intention, I’m trusting God to meet me where I am and carry me where I’m meant to be. If you’re ready to stop talking about it and actually be about it, then let’s lock in together and make the rest of 2024 the launchpad for an even greater 2025. We got this!