"Burn the ships"
One of the most striking examples of locking in from history is Hernán Cortés in 1519, remembered by the phrase burn the ships. After landing in Mexico, many of his men were fearful and wanted the option to retreat to Cuba. To ensure total commitment, Cortés ordered the ships destroyed, leaving escape impossible. This irreversible action forced his men to move forward or face death. By burning the ships, Cortés removed all alternatives and secured their full dedication, showing how ancient leaders could lock in outcomes not through persuasion, but by making commitment unavoidable.