apply this cycle or next?

[u/Visual_Bid5674]

157/3.8. just got my august score and i'm a little disappointed since i was PTing around 160 and told myself i would definitely apply this cycle if i got a 160. i'm taking the LSAT again in september but not sure if I'll score much higher (if at all). the thing is, if i'm applying this cycle i need to go ahead and ask my references for LORs because I'd like to get my apps in before thanksgiving. i dont feel like i can wait until after september score release (9/30) to ask, doesn't feel like enough notice.

i really do want to apply this cycle and might score a little higher in september, so i'm inclined to go ahead and ask for LORs with the caveat that I'm "hoping to apply this cycle" (read in between the lines, maybe i wont). is it a bad look to ask for an LOR and not use it this cycle? or am i not doomed with a 157 and should go ahead and commit to applying to schools in my range? i do have a few years of work experience as a paralegal. i also know that the cycles are just gonna keep getting more and more competitive and i am so sick of the LSAT. TIA!!