Triggers by Marshall Goldsmith

Summary

Triggers by Marshall Goldsmith explores how the environment and external cues ('triggers') shape our behavior and often prevent us from achieving meaningful change. Goldsmith provides practical advice and frameworks for recognizing these triggers and taking control of one's responses. The book is a blend of behavioral psychology, coaching anecdotes, and actionable strategies to help individuals improve habits, leadership, and relationships. Goldsmith emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, daily reflection, and personal accountability in the journey toward lasting behavioral change.

Life-Changing Lessons

1. Awareness of environmental triggers is crucial; change begins with recognizing what prompts unproductive behaviors.

2. Daily questions and self-monitoring—such as Goldsmith’s active questions—are powerful tools for shaping behavior.

3. Lasting change requires structure and accountability, not just willpower or motivation.

Publishing year and rating

The book was published in: 2015

AI Rating (from 0 to 100): 88

Practical Examples

1. Daily Questions

   Goldsmith advocates for asking yourself a set of daily, active questions (e.g., 'Did I do my best to set clear goals today?') and recording your progress. This regular self-reflection increases personal accountability and makes it easier to notice gaps between intention and behavior. Over time, it builds a pattern of mindfulness and self-improvement.

2. Environmental Management

   Goldsmith emphasizes that it’s easier to change your environment than to rely solely on self-control. For example, if social media distracts you, place your phone in another room while working. Proactively shaping your physical and social surroundings can help reduce negative triggers and reinforce positive habits.

3. Behavioral ‘Wheel of Change’

   The Wheel of Change framework invites individuals to reflect on behaviors they want to create, preserve, eliminate, or accept. By categorizing actions and attitudes this way, you can develop a clearer plan to target the most impactful areas for change. This helps ensure energy is focused on practical adjustments rather than abstract intentions.

4. Feedforward

   Rather than giving feedback based on past actions, Goldsmith suggests 'feedforward'—offering suggestions for the future. For example, if a colleague needs to improve communication, provide them with specific strategies they can use in upcoming meetings. This approach reduces defensiveness and focuses on constructive growth.

5. Accountability Partner

   Goldsmith recommends pairing up with an accountability partner who asks you your daily questions. This regular check-in increases commitment and provides external support, making it much harder to ignore or rationalize lapses in desired behavior. Partners should be supportive and nonjudgmental, fostering honest reflection.

6. Anticipating Obstacles

   Before entering potential trigger situations (like tense meetings), Goldsmith encourages mentally rehearsing how you wish to respond. This preparation diminishes the power of negative triggers by increasing self-control and readiness. Imagining positive alternatives primes you for more intentional actions.

7. Measuring Progress

   Goldsmith suggests quantifying progress toward behavioral goals, such as rating your effort on a scale of 1 to 10. This concrete assessment, done regularly, helps identify patterns and track improvements. Measurement transforms vague intentions into actionable commitments.