Author

Gabriele Oettingen

6 key ideas, each explained in our own words.

Rethinking Positive Thinking

IDEA 1
Fantasies can backfire
Oettingen's research found that positive fantasies about the future can lower energy and effort, because the mind feels as if the goal is already reached.
IDEA 2
Mental contrasting
Pair your desired future with the obstacles in the way. Seeing both creates motivation to act.
IDEA 3
WOOP
Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, Plan: name your wish, imagine the best outcome, identify your main inner obstacle, then make an if-then plan.

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