Permanence: The Power of Small Daily Actions - Summary based on notes

                       

This blog is a summary based on personal notes which I took while listening to the blink on the book - Permanence: Become the Person You Want to Be—and Stay That Way by Lisa Broderick and Marshall Goldsmith

 

Personal growth is not just about deciding who we want to become; it is about consistently acting in ways that bring us closer to that person. In Permanence, Lisa Broderick and Marshall Goldsmith highlight the importance of small, deliberate actions in creating lasting change. We may know what needs to be done, but real growth begins when we translate that understanding into action.

 

Small daily actions lead to meaningful transformation. Rather than relying on occasional motivation or ambitious plans, we need simple, repeatable practices and an honest day’s effort. Consistency builds discipline, clarity, and confidence, helping us make steady progress towards our goals.

 

Goals give direction to our efforts, but we must understand their meaning and take ownership of them. We are responsible for the choices we make and the efforts we put into achieving what matters most. Regularly examining our progress helps us remain focused and recognise whether our daily behaviour reflects our aspirations.

 

Marshall Goldsmith’s daily questions encourage us to reflect on our actions: Did I do my best to set clear goals? Did I do my best to make progress towards achieving them? Did I do my best to be fully engaged? Did I do my best to avoid angry or destructive comments about others? These questions shift our attention from blaming circumstances to taking responsibility for our actions and relationships.

 

Measurement turns intentions into observable behaviour. Stoic philosophers practised daily self-reflection, while Benjamin Franklin used a personal scorecard to monitor his progress. Peter Drucker’s principle, commonly expressed as “What gets measured gets managed,” reinforces the value of tracking our efforts. By evaluating specific behaviours, such as listening patiently, managing time effectively, and responding calmly, we can identify areas for improvement.

 

Personal transformation also depends on the choices we make in the moment. Responding thoughtfully rather than reacting impulsively can help us reduce resentment, let go of the need to control others, and focus on what lies within our influence.

 

Ultimately, lasting change requires a clear purpose, consistent effort, and honest self-assessment. Instead of waiting for the perfect moment to change, we can begin with small actions today. The essential question is: Did I make a sincere effort to become the person I want to be? By reflecting daily, measuring our progress, and trying again, we can turn personal growth into a sustainable practice.