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Why Good Intentions Aren’t Enough

In Triggers, Marshall Goldsmith, one of the world’s most respected executive coaches, tackles a challenge everyone faces: the gap between who we are and who we want to be. Change is hard not because we lack ambition, but because our daily environments are filled with “triggers” that subtly shape our behaviors, often without us realizing it.

Goldsmith’s core insight is that transformation isn’t about willpower alone it’s about structuring your environment, mindset, and habits so they work for you, not against you. The book blends behavioral science, personal coaching experiences, and practical frameworks to help readers master the art of self-directed change.

By focusing on awareness, accountability, and daily questions, Goldsmith offers a blueprint for creating behavioral shifts that stick not just for weeks, but for life.

Top 10 Lessons from Triggers

1. Environment Always Wins

No matter how strong your intentions, your surroundings influence your actions. Shape your environment to make good choices easier.

2. Identify Your Personal Triggers

Self-awareness starts with spotting the people, places, and situations that push you toward unproductive behaviors.

3. Structure Beats Motivation

Instead of relying solely on willpower, build systems and routines that make desired behaviors automatic.

4. Ask Active Questions Daily

Questions like “Did I do my best to…?” shift focus from outcomes to effort, fostering consistent improvement.

5. Measure Progress, Not Perfection

Track your efforts regularly and reward progress, even if it’s incremental.

6. Anticipate, Don’t Just React

Plan for challenges in advance so you’re not caught off guard by temptation or stress.

7. Accountability Drives Change

Involve others mentors, friends, or colleagues to keep you honest about your goals.

8. Small Changes Compound

Tiny, consistent shifts in behavior create exponential long-term transformation.

9. Accept Responsibility for Your Choices

Blaming external factors stalls growth. Own your actions and their consequences.

10. End the Day with Reflection

Review what worked, what didn’t, and how you can improve tomorrow turning each day into a learning cycle.

Why This Book Matters

Triggers is not a motivational pep talk it’s a behavioral playbook. Goldsmith gives you tools to move from intention to action, helping you create change that lasts because it’s grounded in structure, not just inspiration.

Final Take:
“Lasting change doesn’t happen in a flash of inspiration it happens in the quiet discipline of making better choices, day after day.”