Details Count

Details really do matter. We can’t afford to avoid necessary scrutinization. Looking back, whenever I failed to check the fine print, create clear guidelines, document certain meetings, organize files, fully read emails, mark my calendar, return phone calls, or slow down and review my work, subsequently, things didn’t turn out so well.

We can avoid needless pain and disappointment if we apply simple quality control. It may cost us a little extra time and effort on the back end, but save us an immense amount of time on the front end. Mediocrity sabotages effective leadership. “Good enough” is never good enough. (Proverbs 6:6-9). We should apply the following:

1. DISCIPLINE – Doing a job every day.

To achieve something great, our work must flow from our daily habits. Regular practice, attention to personal growth, and consistent positive attitudes make each task profitable and better connect the dots to provide clarity toward revealing the final results.

2. DILIGENCE – Doing a job well every day.

This involves not only getting through but following through. A job well done requires pausing frequently to look everything over and make sure the details are right, crafting excellence into every detail, and assuring the persistent care and quality of our work.

3. DETAIL – Doing small jobs well every day.

A big job consists of many little jobs. Leaders should develop systems, checklists, accountability, and critical feedback for their work to ensure quality control. Missing small things over a significant amount of time can result in the failure to reach your goals.

4. DISCOVERY – Doing small jobs well every day for a reason.

Details don’t matter if you haven’t discovered the reason for doing them. If you’re working tediously but have no goal in sight, you’re just wasting time. An exciting goal makes the extra effort worthwhile. Having a clear purpose increases the value of our details.