The Last 8% (The Science of Speaking Up, Taking Risks, and Building a High-Performing Team)

Based on a landmark seven-year study, a groundbreaking look at why teams hold back when the stakes are high—delivering bold, research-backed tools like stress mastery, fearless feedback, and accountable cultures to ignite trust, unleash daring innovation, and turn hesitation into decisive action every time it matters.

In the demanding world of work, our teams consistently face pivotal, consequential choices. But too often, our teams avoid the hard conversations, delay major decisions, and play it safe when bold moves are needed most. This doesn’t just stall progress—it erodes trust, stifles innovation, and leaves everyone with feelings of regret. Why does this happen? And how can we turn our teams from overly cautious to confident?

In The Last 8%, JP Pawliw and Bill Benjamin, cofounders of the Institute for Health & Human Potential, reveal why our usually high-performing teams tend to stall under pressure. Drawing from their seven-year study of over thirty-four-thousand people published in Harvard Business Review, they reveal that we consistently avoid 8% of the most crucial situations—and provide concrete tools to help leaders and their employees face these moments with clarity. From an executive who almost let a detrimental product decision go unchallenged before turning tension into progress, to NASA teams that nearly missed critical warning signs until they built an environment where astronauts can speak up, Pawliw and Benjamin reveal the cost of reluctance and what becomes possible when we step forward. With actionable strategies for self-regulating under stress, giving feedback that fuels growth, and creating a culture where care and accountability drive connection, risk-taking, and breakthroughs, Pawliw and Benjamin equip leaders with the tactics they need to empower their people to act.

Grounded in original research and tested by Navy SEALs, Fortune 100 CEOs, athletes, and more, The Last 8% is your guide to building a team that thrives every time it counts.