What is Temporal construal theory?
Temporal construal theory (closely related to construal level theory) explains how psychological distance in time changes the way people think about events. Distant future events are represented abstractly (why they matter), while near future events are represented concretely (how to do them).
How it works
Trope and Liberman showed that when thinking about an event far in the future, people focus on desirability (is this worth doing?) and abstract features. As the event approaches, they shift to feasibility (how will I actually do this?) and concrete details. This explains why people enthusiastically commit to future obligations but dread them as they approach: the abstract appeal (helping a friend move = being a good friend) gives way to concrete reality (carrying heavy boxes in the heat).
Applied example
A person eagerly agrees in June to run a charity half-marathon in October (abstract: being healthy, supporting a cause). As October approaches, concrete reality dominates: the early alarm, sore muscles, insufficient training. The event has not changed; the construal has shifted from why to how.
Why it matters
Temporal construal theory explains the systematic gap between future intentions and present behavior, with practical implications for commitment devices, goal setting, and deadline design.
