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About this quote

What does it mean?
Focusing on details can prevent seeing the overall situation.
In plain terms
You miss the forest when you stare at the trees.
What can you take from it?
Step back to see the big picture.

Where it applies

  • problem solving
  • strategic planning

Putting it to work

  • use holistic analysis
  • avoid tunnel vision

Questions to consider

  • When does focusing on details help rather than hinder?
  • How can we balance detail and overview?

Another view

Sometimes details are essential and cannot be ignored.

More from John Heywood

  1. A penny for your thought.

    Permalink to quote #41
  2. Tit for tat.

    Permalink to quote #43
  3. A woman hath nine lives like a cat.

    Permalink to quote #40

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