The difference between excellence and mediocrity - Sweat the Small Stuff!

What does it take to differentiate between excellence and average/ mediocrity? In the world where there is such a huge gap between excellence and average, the gap between average and mediocrity is often indiscernable. Using the laws of transitivity, we know that there exist a huge gap between excellence and mediocrity.

In my mind, 3 words - "Attention to Details".

We see this difference all the time. Consider a product. Take the example of a branded watch say Rolex. Compare the real thing with the "branded fake". Even though most of the features are similar, one can always tell the real from the fake when you examine the details. The lettering on the date slot is rough, the wrist bracelet does not snap neatly, the click of the dial on the submariner is not crisp. These are the details. The truth is that the real is an excellent piece of watch, the fake... ah... is not worth the breath.

Take a piece of work assigned to a staff. An excellent piece of work will bear the hallmark of well thought through flow, double indented paragraphing, spell-checked to ensure no typographical errors, consistent format, clear arguements and recommendations presented in a succint manner. An average is one where people will be put off without even trying to reading, the format is confusing, the first statement is already filled grammatical error and many other tell-tale signs that the staff has just rushed through the work and cannot be bothered with getting even basic facts right. Even though the understanding from both staff may be similar, the outcome is miles apart - the difference being excellence and average/ mediocrity. Can you identify with me?

It is actually not hard to stand on the side of excellence, I feel. Just spend some time and pay attention to the details. Sweat the small stuff!