Focus & Habits · 08 of 10
WOOP (Mental Contrasting)
Source: Gabriele Oettingen (Rethinking Positive Thinking)
WOOP stands for Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, Plan. It combines picturing a desired outcome with confronting the internal obstacle in the way.
When to use it
Use it when setting a goal you want to make realistic and actionable.
How to apply it
- Name a wish that is challenging but achievable.
- Picture the best outcome of achieving it.
- Identify the main obstacle inside you that could stop you.
- Make an if-then plan for how you will act when the obstacle appears.
- Repeat the exercise when the goal or obstacle changes.
Tip: Focus on internal obstacles, such as habits or emotions, rather than external ones.