Rethinking Positive Thinking

60-SECOND BOOK BRIEFS

BY GABRIELE OETTINGEN

Gabriele Oettingen has uncovered the

surprising science of positive thinking and why it doesn’t work

in her book, Rethinking Positive Thinking.

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The premise is simple - that if instead of only thinking positive thoughts

when it comes to our future goals,

we should actively associate the obstacles that could get in our way

with that future reality.

She’s even given us a handy acronym to remember what to do:

WOOP

is for wish. Think about something you want to accomplish in your life. It could be a one year goal, a one day goal, or anything in between. W

is for outcomes. Think about all the great things that might happen if you achieve that wish. Be as vivid and detailed as you can.O

The second O is for obstacles. Now think of all of the bad things that could happen to get in the way of you achieving your wish.O

P is for plan. Now take all of the obstacles you identified and come up with a plan for overcoming them when they inevitably arise.P

Repeat this for whatever goals and dreams you want to accomplish in your life.♽

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