Setting & Achieving Goals (WOOP method)

Setting and Achieving Goals

WOOP was developed by psychology professor Gabriele Oettingen. In her book, “Rethinking Positive Thinking” (2015), Oettingen shows how realistic thinking and planning helps learners to identify and achieve their goals. Put simply, you should plan for difficulties and obstacles, as well as success.

So, when you are thinking about taking on new knowledge or skills, try to consider the following:

Wish: What is your goal. Think about a specific wish. It should be challenging for you, but also appear doable. Try to free yourself from the expectations of others and ask yourself what you really want.
Outcome: After you’ve identified a goal, you should imagine what it’d be like to make your wish reality. How would you feel? What would be the best possible outcome? Paint a vivid picture of the future in your mind. Imagining this situation is a key step in the process; it’s essential for early motivation.
Obstacle: Next, honestly reflect on what your biggest internal obstacle is that’s stopping you from achieving your goal. What’s getting in your way? Here too, you should try to imagine your obstacle in your mind as tangibly as you can.
Plan: Now think about what you can do to overcome this obstacle. What could be helpful thoughts? Which actions could you take? How can you manage your time? Who will tutor you? Who will support you?

Finally, prepare a concrete ‘if-then’ plan in case you actually face the obstacle you imagine: “If ___________, then I will ___________. (IONOS)

Oettingen’s research shows that realistic planning, which considers and plans for difficulty, is more likely to result in successful outcomes for learners.

Link: WOOP

Link: IONOS