Triggers: Creating Behavior That Lasts

Marshall Goldsmith explores how environmental and psychological triggers impact human behavior and personal change. The book examines why people struggle to modify their habits despite good intentions and clear goals. Through research and case studies from Goldsmith's executive coaching practice, the text presents strategies for identifying and managing triggers that derail desired behavioral changes. A structured system of daily questions and self-monitoring techniques forms the core methodology for achieving lasting transformation. The narrative moves between practical applications and broader insights about human nature, willpower, and the role of environment in shaping actions. Goldsmith incorporates findings from behavioral psychology and organizational development to support his framework. The work stands as an examination of the gap between knowing and doing, suggesting that successful personal change requires both self-awareness and deliberate engagement with our surroundings.

Readers appreciate the book's practical approach to behavior change and clear explanations of how environment affects habits. Many found value in the "active questions" technique and daily accountability measures. Positive feedback focuses on: - Real-world examples from Goldsmith's coaching experience - Simple, actionable framework for tracking progress - Focus on external triggers rather than just willpower - Daily reflection exercises Common criticisms: - Content could be condensed into a shorter format - Repetitive examples and concepts - Too much focus on corporate/executive scenarios - Basic concepts presented as groundbreaking ideas Ratings: Goodreads: 3.95/5 (6,800+ ratings) Amazon: 4.5/5 (1,100+ ratings) One reader noted: "The daily questions process transformed how I approach change." Another said: "Good ideas buried in unnecessary padding and corporate-speak." Some readers reported success with the methods but felt the book could have delivered its message in half the length.

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🔸 Marshall Goldsmith was ranked as the world's #1 leadership thinker by Thinkers50 and Harvard Business Review, and has coached over 150 CEOs from Fortune 500 companies. 🔸 The book's core concept of "triggering" was inspired by Goldsmith's own struggle with behavioral change when he realized his environment was constantly working against his best intentions. 🔸 The "wheel of change" presented in the book has become a popular corporate training tool, featuring four elements: Creating, Preserving, Eliminating, and Accepting. 🔸 Research cited in the book shows that people who simply write down their goals are 42% more likely to achieve them than those who don't, and the success rate increases to 76% when adding accountability measures. 🔸 While writing "Triggers," Goldsmith personally tested his daily questions method (a key concept in the book) for over 100 consecutive days, asking himself the same 32 questions every night.