Hey there,
I’m wondering if you might want to try some autosuggestion / self-hypnosis type of stuff.
A lot of lucidity comes from intent/will in combination with subconscious habit. That’s why reality checks are used in the first place, because they become habitual and programmed into the unconscious and whatever your programming is, is usually what plays out in the dream space.
Personally, I’ve only used reality checks a handful of times to realize lucidity. (And you’ve demonstrated that they have their limitations).
Most of the lucid dreams I have seem to happen simply because I’ve placed so much intention and attention on it.
Maybe you can try meditating for 15 minutes before bedtime, sitting up and becoming relaxed. During this time, repeat to yourself a mantra in your mind about lucid dreaming. Something like “I will have a lucid dream” or really whatever feels good to you and invokes the passion to lucidity. It’s important to also invoke the emotional energy of your deep desire to become lucid while you repeat the mantra.
I think it was Stephen LaBerge (I think lol it could be the other wagoner dude) , who suggested the phrase “The next time I dream, I will remember to notice I am dreaming.” I like this one, but choose one that works for you.
By doing that, you are programming your subconscious to recognize the dream and become ‘aware’. continue with the mantra in your mind as you lay down to fall asleep, and even say it to yourself throughout the day, perhaps during your reality checks.
I swear to god, one afternoon, I achieved 7 lucid dreams in a row after practicing the autosuggestion as I was falling asleep. (Very unusual ! I am not yet an every night lucid dreamer, so this was surprising).
Anyway, I think it could help you as it completely forgoes the need for your dream content to adhere to the conditions that create reality checks.
If you do end up practicing it, I’d love to hear how it goes and if it worked!