Scheduled Unlock Windows: Build Discipline and Prevent Impulsive Bypassing
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Alex Stav
Why is introducing specific unlock windows helpful?
Unlock windows prevent impulsive decisions by restricting when users can modify or remove content restrictions, providing an extra safeguard against bypassing personal rules. Similar to scheduling rules, designated unlock windows (e.g., only allowing profile changes from 6 a.m. to 8 a.m. or from 8 p.m. to 9 p.m.) encourage mindful decision-making and intentional behavior. Behavioral experts confirm this method reduces temptation by making impulsive unlocking impossible, helping users establish stronger routines, enhance discipline, and sustain progress in overcoming unwanted habits.
Feature Explanation:
This feature allows users to set specific scheduled windows during which they can unlock their profile. Outside these predefined times, unlocking becomes impossible, providing a powerful safeguard against impulsive behavior. For example, you might allow unlocking only between 6–8 a.m. and 8–9 p.m., ensuring that during vulnerable moments, your restrictions remain firm and effective.
Here is a HealthyGamerGG talks about it:
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Alex Stav
Ben, would really appreciate if you could check this out! This feature could be a huge help for those in the community dealing with severe addiction.
Ben
Alex Stav this has been suggested before and I think it's a good idea. We have to implement this carefully since a user could lock themselves out permanently. For example, the user has an unlock time-delay of 2 hours and a daily unlock window that is only 1 hour. Perhaps we could add a minimum required time window per day, so a user must select at least a 2 hour window for each day of the week. Another option would be to make scheduling an alternative to the unlock delay. You can choose either an unlock delay or a schedule, but not both.
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Alex Stav
I totally agree with you, Ben! I actually found a similar workaround myself—I used to block Yahoo (my accountability email) at specific times, and it worked wonders… until I found a way to bypass it. 😅
If we can implement this directly on TechLockdown's side, it would be a huge help for many users. No matter how many layers of protection I set up, if I can still bypass it through "Unlocking Profile," I can do pretty much anything.
I’d suggest requiring:
✅ Minimum 1h in the morning (required)
✅ Minimum 1h in the evening (required)
✅ At least a 2h unlock window per day to prevent users from permanently locking themselves out.
This way, it strikes the right balance—strong protection without accidental lockouts!
Ben, by any chance, how high is this feature on your priority list? For me, this is the only real way to maintain a healthy life—everything else I can still find a way to bypass. Really hoping this gets implemented soon!
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Jake Miller
When urges hit hard, I sometimes waste 3-4 hours just bypassing protection layers. Scheduled unlock windows would help me big-time!
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Nasty
My psychologist recommended setting specific time windows to manage urges better, but I've never found a practical way to do this online. When the urges hit hard, I can bypass almost any restriction—having predefined unlock windows would seriously improve my self-control. Would love to see this feature implemented! 🙌🚀
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Alex
Nasty Same here! When the urges get intense, I can pretty much bypass anything. Having strict, scheduled unlock windows would be a total game-changer for me. Would definitely help keep me accountable!