Experiencing obstacles during goal pursuit: The role of goal motivation and trait self-control

Some people report encountering fewer obstacles during goal pursuit than others, but why is this the case? Seven pre-registered studies examine role of motivation (want-to and have-to) trait self-control in how individuals set up perceive to their environment. Findings show that want-to were associated with reduced experiences obstacles; have-to was a preference for greater proximity obstacles. Have-to also related stronger perceptions as problematic, perception less problematic. Discussion centers on nuances regarding these relations existence different contexts, implications self-regulation motivation.