You're on the train to work. Or lying in bed at midnight. And suddenly the thought appears: "Did I lock the door?" If this sounds familiar, you're in very good company.
of people have turned back to check if they locked the door at least once
Why This Happens
Locking your door is what psychologists call an automatised behaviour. Your brain runs it on autopilot. The problem: autopilot actions don't create strong memories. Later, you genuinely can't recall if you did it.
When Worry Becomes a Problem
Occasional uncertainty is normal. But for some people, it becomes more:
- Checking multiple times before being able to leave
- Turning back during commutes to verify
- Unable to focus at work because of the nagging doubt
- Sleep disrupted by wondering if the house is secure
When to seek support: If checking behaviours significantly disrupt your daily life or take more than an hour of your day, this may indicate OCD or anxiety that benefits from professional support. Your GP can refer you for appropriate help.
Practical Strategies That Help
1. Create a Locking Ritual
Say "I am locking the door now" out loud. Touch the locked door. This interrupts autopilot just enough to create a memory.
2. Reduce Morning Chaos
The more rushed you are when leaving, the less attention is available for encoding memories. Prepare the night before.
3. Get External Confirmation
For many people, the most effective solution is removing reliance on memory entirely. If you can see that the door is locked—not remember, but see—the doubt has nowhere to go.
The One-Check Rule
- Before leaving, check the door once with full attention
- Confirm it's locked (try the handle)
- If it's locked, commit to that being enough
- If doubt arises later, remind yourself: "I checked. It was locked."
See It. Know It. Move On.
Locksure shows you whether your door is locked—right on your phone. No more wondering. No more turning back.
Learn How It Works →The Bigger Picture
The "did I lock the door?" worry is rarely really about the door. It's about safety, control, and the uncomfortable feeling of uncertainty. The goal isn't to never think about the door—it's to resolve it quickly and move on with your day.