Transform Obstacles into Opportunities with WOOP

The Simple Formula to Achieve Your Goals

Dreams are powerful. They’re the spark that lights the fire of possibility. But dreaming alone doesn’t make things happen. If dreaming were enough, we’d all be astronauts, authors, and adventurers by now. Dreams need a map—a plan. And that’s where WOOP comes in.

WOOP isn’t just a funny-sounding word. It’s a tool, a game-changer from the book Rethinking Positive Thinking by Gabriele Oettingen. It helps you take your dreams and turn them into action. WOOP stands for Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, and Plan. Let’s break it down.

Wish

Start with your wish. What’s something you want? Maybe it’s getting better grades, making new friends, or learning to play the guitar. Your wish should be exciting and challenging—not too easy, not impossible.

Outcome

Next, picture what success looks like. How will you feel when you achieve your wish? Will you be proud? Happy? Confident? Let that outcome fuel your motivation. It’s not just about dreaming here—it’s about seeing the best version of what could be.

Obstacle

Now, let’s get real. What might get in the way? Is it fear? Procrastination? Too much time spent on screens? Naming your obstacle doesn’t make you a pessimist—it makes you prepared. Problems can’t trip you up if you see them coming.

Plan

Finally, the magic step. For every obstacle, you make a plan. “If this happens, I’ll do that.” For example, “If I feel like quitting guitar practice, I’ll remind myself how cool it’ll be to play for my friends.” This is where your dream turns into a to-do.

WOOP works because it combines the power of positive thinking with the reality of roadblocks. It doesn’t just hope for the best—it plans for it.

Try it today. Think of something small but meaningful. Wish. Outcome. Obstacle. Plan. Write it down, say it out loud, or just think it through. WOOP isn’t about big words or complicated steps—it’s about starting, adjusting, and growing.

The best part? WOOP isn’t just for kids or grown-ups—it’s for anyone who dreams and dares. So, what’s your wish? Let’s WOOP it into reality.

Dream big. Plan better. Achieve more.