Life is composed of countless subtle details. Some details may seem insignificant, yet often hide profound insights. Perhaps it is precisely because you overlooked one small detail that you missed many opportunities along life's journey. Paying attention to details is not merely a small reminder—it should be an attitude and a code of conduct that we consciously cultivate.
The most difficult rule in the world to follow is "moderation." Moderation stems from cultivation, and cultivation arises from the accumulation of tiny details in daily life. This accumulation is itself a kind of skill.
There is a story I believe holds valuable lessons for both modern businesses and individuals:
A renowned large company was hiring a professional manager, attracting a flood of applicants, many of whom had advanced degrees, multiple certifications, and relevant work experience. After four rounds of screening—initial interviews, written tests, and other eliminations—only six candidates remained. However, the company would hire just one person as manager. Therefore, the fifth and final round would be conducted personally by the company's CEO. Clearly, the competition ahead would be even fiercer.
Yet, when the interview began, the examiner noticed there was one extra person in the room—seven candidates instead of six. He asked, "Is there anyone here who isn't supposed to be in this interview?" At that moment, a man sitting at the very back stood up and said, "Sir, I was eliminated in the first round, but I'd like to participate in this interview anyway."
Everyone laughed upon hearing this—even the old man standing by the door, pouring water for the candidates, couldn't help but chuckle. The examiner, unimpressed, asked, "If you couldn't even pass the first round, what's the point of attending this interview?" The man replied, "Because I possess a wealth that others don't—I myself am a great asset."
Everyone burst out laughing again, thinking he must either be mentally unwell or wildly arrogant.
The man continued, "Although I only hold a bachelor's degree and a mid-level professional title, I have ten years of work experience and have served at twelve different companies..." At this, the examiner quickly interjected, "While your academic credentials and title aren't high, ten years of work experience is impressive. However, you've switched jobs twelve times—that's not exactly a behavior we admire."
The man replied, "Sir, I didn't switch jobs. Those twelve companies simply went bankrupt, one after another." The room erupted in laughter for the third time. One candidate sneered, "You're truly a complete failure!" The man smiled and said, "No, it wasn't my failure—it was the failure of those companies. These failures have accumulated into my personal wealth."
At that moment, the old man by the door stepped forward to pour tea for the examiner. The man continued, "I know those twelve companies very well. I worked with my colleagues to try to save them. Although we failed, I know every detail behind their errors and failures, and I've learned a great deal from them—knowledge others simply can't acquire. Most people only pursue success, but I have the experience to avoid mistakes and failures!"
The man paused, then added, "I deeply understand that success stories are mostly similar and easy to imitate, while the reasons for failure are each different. Spending ten years learning about success is less valuable than spending the same time experiencing errors and failures—what you learn is far more and far deeper. Other people's successes are hard to turn into our wealth, but their failures can be."
The man rose from his seat, turned as if to leave, then suddenly turned back and said, "These twelve companies over the past ten years have cultivated and sharpened my keen insight into people, situations, and the future. Let me give you a small example—the real examiner isn't you, sir, but this elderly man pouring tea..."
Everyone in the room was stunned, their eyes turning toward the tea-pouring old man. The old man, momentarily surprised, quickly regained his composure and then smiled: "Excellent! You're hired. Because I want to know—how did you figure this out?"
His words revealed that he was indeed the CEO of the company. This time, it was the candidate's turn to smile.
I once said that a person's ability is something that cannot be programmed or taught. To understand the world deeply is scholarship; to master human relations is art. This candidate could discern from the old man's eyes, demeanor, and gestures that he was the true leader of the company—proof of his exceptional observational skills. This kind of profound perceptiveness isn't something one can master overnight. It requires long-term accumulation, constant training, and improvement through careful attention to every single detail. A common trait among successful people is their ability to handle small tasks and notice the little things in life. In truth, every matter is composed of details.
If you constantly yearn for greatness and chase after it, greatness will remain elusive. But if you embrace simplicity and diligently attend to every detail, greatness will arrive unexpectedly. This is the magic of details—the delightful surprise that comes naturally when preparation meets opportunity.