As the end of the year approaches, many leaders find themselves in a familiar pattern: winding down, coasting, or quietly checking out. After all, it’s been a long year. Goals were set, projects were launched, lessons were learned, and, in many cases, burnout has flirted at the edges of our ambition.

But here’s a powerful truth:

How you finish is how you’ll be remembered.

In my martial arts training, one of the earliest lessons I learned is that a form (or kata) must begin and end with equal focus. It doesn’t matter how fast, flashy, or flawless the middle is — if the ending is sloppy or unfocused, it leaves an impression of incompleteness.

Leadership is the same way.

You may have started the year strong. But how you finish — how you follow through, show up, and carry yourself through the final moments — is what cements your character in the eyes of others... and yourself.

The Temptation to Coast

It’s easy to start the year with energy. There are fresh goals, c...