The end of the year can feel like a pressure cooker. Deadlines are approaching, goals are at stake and the temptation to say, “I’ll take care of that next quarter” can set in.

But if we pause for a moment and shift our perspective, the final weeks of a quarter present a unique opportunity: a chance to finish strong and build momentum going forward.

This is true not only in our professional life but also in our personal life. How we choose to close this chapter – whether with determination or passivity – can set the tone for what is to come. The good news? Completing the term well does not require perfection. This requires concentration. And focus, as any leader or individual knows, is a skill worth honing.

Here’s how to close out the quarter with clarity, energy, and intentionality.

Revisiting, refocusing

One of the simplest but most effective things you can do in these final weeks is to review your quarterly goals. Too often, we set ambitious goals at the start of the year, then we let the hustle and bustle of life or work distract us from them. Now is the time to ask yourself, “What have I committed to accomplishing this quarter and how can I take these commitments to the finish line?” »

In the workplace, this might involve reviewing sales goals or wrapping up a critical project. For example, if your team is just shy of reaching its revenue goal, focus your energy on closing those last few deals. Or, if a project is dragging its feet, decide which tasks need to be done now and which can wait.

At home, revisiting your goals might mean accomplishing small, meaningful tasks that have been putting off: organizing the garage, reconnecting with a friend, or finally booking that family getaway.

But here’s the key: don’t let perfect be the enemy of good. Focus on what is still achievable and let that become your goal.

To prioritize

The biggest mistake people make at the end of a term is trying to do everything. When we spread ourselves too thin, we risk accomplishing nothing of real value. The solution is to be crystal clear about your priorities.

Start by asking three questions:

—What is urgent?

—What is important?

—What can wait?

At work, this might mean focusing on the customers or tasks that provide the most value. For example, instead of chasing every lead, focus on the ones that are closest to the conclusion. At home, this might mean putting aside lesser tasks and making time for something more fulfilling, like a family dinner or a long-overdue conversation.

The truth is, we can’t do everything, but we can do the things that matter most.

Keep your energy high

It’s one thing to set priorities. It’s another thing to have the energy to see them through. As the term comes to an end, it’s easy to feel exhausted, but that’s exactly when it’s most important to stay energized.

For yourself, this might mean taking small, deliberate steps to recharge: a quick workout, a short walk, or even just a deep breath to center yourself. Don’t underestimate the power of good sleep and nutrition, two things that are often the first to go when we feel exhausted.

For teams, keeping energy levels high can look like recognizing and celebrating progress. Has anyone gone above and beyond on a project? Recognize it. Did your team have a particularly difficult quarter? Take a moment to reflect on the resilience it took to achieve this.

At home, that might mean bringing your family together for a mini celebration of the victories you’ve had this term, whether they’re big or small. Celebrating progress builds morale and reminds everyone, including yourself, that their efforts matter.

Set the details

Details tend to hang over us like a cloud. Whether it’s an incomplete task or a lingering relationship problem, unfinished business can rob us of the satisfaction that comes with a good ending.

At work, tying up details might mean finalizing reports, submitting expense reports, or resolving a lingering customer concern. These small actions may not seem glamorous, but they pave the way for a fresh start next quarter.

At home, think about what personal or household tasks need to be completed. Is there an email you wanted to send? A bill to pay? A closet that’s just waiting to be decluttered? Completing these tasks, even if they are minor, creates a feeling of accomplishment that can carry over to the next phase.

Create momentum

Finally, take the time to reflect, not to criticize yourself, but to learn. Ask yourself:

— What worked well this quarter?

— What didn’t go as planned and why?

—What lessons can I learn?

For leaders, this reflection can take place during a team meeting where everyone shares their victories and lessons learned. For individuals, this might look like journaling or a conversation with a trusted friend, coach, or mentor.

The goal of reflection is not to dwell on mistakes but to extract information that can inform your next steps. For example, if a major project didn’t meet expectations, what would you do differently next time? If a personal goal was missed, what got in the way?

Reflection is not about repairing the past; it’s about building a better future.

Finish strong

Here’s the benefit of closing a quarter with intention: it’s not just about hitting a goal or checking boxes. It’s about honoring the efforts you’ve already made and laying the foundation for what’s to come. Whether in work or in life, finishing strong sends a powerful message to yourself and others that you are committed to achieving excellence.

As you navigate these last few weeks, remember this: You don’t have to do everything. But you can choose to do the things that matter most, with focus, energy and heart. And when you do, not only will you end this quarter on a good note, but you’ll also set yourself up for success the next one.

So what’s your next step? Take it. Finish strong.

Patti Cotton is a thought partner to CEOs and other business leaders to help them manage complexity and change. Contact her by email at [email protected].