Have you ever found yourself stuck for days, unable to make a choice? Should I apply or not? Switch careers or stick it out for another year? Go to work today or take a risk pursuing what I really love?
The secret isn’t some CEO DNA or Navy SEAL training. Ethan Kross explains in a CNBC article that it’s actually a simple brain hack called WOOP.
WOOP: a brain hack for decision-making
WOOP stands for Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, and Plan. In short: you define your wish (Wish), imagine the result (Outcome), figure out what’s holding you back (Obstacle), and create a concrete plan (Plan).
It’s a way to give yourself a reality check and organize your thoughts before you get lost in endless “what ifs.”
Picture this: You want to hit the gym more often.
- Wish: “I want to go to the gym more often.”
- Outcome: “I’ll feel more energized, healthier, and stronger.”
- Obstacle: “After work, I’m tired and think it’s too late or too hard.”
- Plan: “If it’s 6 PM, I’ll change, grab my bag, and head to the gym, even if I’m tired, starting with easy exercises to get into the flow.”
So here’s the formula: If _____ (obstacle) _____, then _____ (action) _____.
The goal is to train yourself to shift your emotions naturally, without overthinking—kind of like buckling your seatbelt automatically, without even noticing. At first, it may feel impossible, but think about all the things that once seemed tricky that you now do without hesitation—from riding a bike to making your coffee with your eyes closed.
Who knows? Your next big decision might come faster than it takes you to make an espresso… WOOP, and done.
