In life and work, it’s tempting to think that being 95% done is good enough. After all, you’ve done the bulk of the work, and what’s left may feel minor. But there’s a big difference between being almost done and actually finishing. That final 5%—the last push to completion—often determines whether something succeeds, gets noticed, or makes an impact.

Let’s explore why closing the gap between 95% and 100% matters so much, why it’s often the hardest part of any project, and how to make sure you finish what you start.

The Power of Finishing

  1. 95% Isn’t Done
    No matter how close you are, 95% complete is still incomplete. Until something is truly finished, it can’t deliver value, meet its purpose, or make an impact.

    • Example: Imagine writing a book but never publishing it. All your effort remains unseen, and the potential impact of your work is lost.
  2. The Final 5% Is Often the Most Visible
    The last steps of a project are often the ones that bring it to life—whether it’s presenting a proposal, polishing a product, or adding the finishing touches. Without that final effort, your work can appear unfinished or lack the polish it needs to succeed.

    • Example: A cake that’s baked but not frosted still isn’t ready for the party.
  3. The Satisfaction of Completion
    Finishing something brings a sense of accomplishment that partial completion never does. The act of crossing the finish line is energizing and builds momentum for your next project.

    • Example: Checking a fully completed task off your to-do list feels far more rewarding than leaving it half-done.

Why the Last 5% Feels So Hard

  1. Diminishing Motivation
    At the start of a project, enthusiasm and momentum are high. By the time you’re nearing the end, the novelty has worn off, and fatigue may set in.
  2. Fear of Imperfection
    The closer you get to finishing, the more you may worry about how the final product will be received. This fear can lead to procrastination or avoidance.
  3. Details Take Time
    The last 5% often involves ironing out details, resolving small issues, or double-checking work. These tasks can feel tedious compared to the excitement of starting something new.
  4. Temptation to Move On
    When you’re close to finishing one project, new ideas or opportunities often arise. The temptation to start something fresh can pull your focus away from finishing.

Why Closing the Gap Matters

  1. Finished Work Makes an Impact
    Only completed work can be shared, sold, or implemented. An unfinished project, no matter how promising, doesn’t achieve its potential.
  2. It Builds Trust and Credibility
    Following through on your commitments—whether to yourself or others—builds a reputation for reliability. Leaving things incomplete, on the other hand, can undermine trust.
  3. It Frees Mental Space
    Unfinished projects linger in the back of your mind, draining mental energy. Finishing allows you to move on with a clear conscience.

How to Push Through the Last 5%

  1. Break It Down
    Identify exactly what needs to be done to finish. Breaking the final steps into smaller, manageable tasks can make them feel less daunting.

    • Example: Instead of thinking, “I need to finish this report,” break it down into steps like “proofread,” “add visuals,” and “submit.”
  2. Set a Deadline
    A clear, realistic deadline can provide the motivation needed to push through the last stretch.
  3. Focus on the Reward
    Remind yourself of the benefits of finishing—whether it’s the satisfaction of accomplishment, the impact your work will have, or the opportunity to start something new.
  4. Get Accountability
    Share your progress with someone else who can encourage you to finish. Accountability partners can provide support and hold you to your commitments.
  5. Celebrate Completion
    Plan a small reward for when you finish. Knowing there’s something to look forward to can help you stay motivated through the final steps.

The Takeaway

The gap between 95% and 100% is deceptively small but critically important. It’s the difference between “almost done” and “done,” between potential and achievement, and between good intentions and actual results.

By recognizing the value of finishing and developing strategies to push through the final stretch, you can turn almost-finished work into completed accomplishments. Remember, the last 5% is where the magic happens—it’s where your efforts pay off, your ideas come to life, and your impact is realized.