How to turn a wish into a plan: the WOOP method
Updated: 2026-10-21To turn a wish into a plan, describe it with WOOP: Wish (what you want), Outcome (the best result), Obstacle (what inside you most often gets in the way) and Plan (what you will do when the obstacle appears: “if…, then…”). Then choose a first small step for today.
The four WOOP steps
- Wish: one specific wish you can reach in a few weeks.
- Outcome: what the best result looks like and how it will feel.
- Obstacle: what inside you usually gets in the way: tiredness, fear, distraction.
- Plan: “If [obstacle] shows up, then I will [specific action].”
Why it works
The method was developed by psychologist Gabriele Oettingen. Positive dreaming alone can lower energy for action, while contrasting the wish with a real obstacle and having a ready plan helps people start and keep going.
An “if…, then…” plan removes the need to decide in the hard moment: you already know what to do.
How Open Abundance can help
In Open Abundance every wish has a “plan to wish” flow: a dated near-term result, the obstacle and an “if…, then…” plan. The plan immediately produces a step for today and a hook for tomorrow.
Frequently asked questions
How is WOOP different from regular goal setting?
WOOP plans for the main inner obstacle in advance and gives a ready action for that moment, instead of only describing the goal.
How long does WOOP take?
Usually 5–10 minutes. You can repeat it daily or before an important task.
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