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You’ve heard the saying, “The devil is in the details.” It means the little things are important. When something goes wrong, it is often due to the little things someone has ignored.

Those little details can destroy a project or even a business or relationship.

Angels are in the details, too. This is especially true of creative projects, where attention to detail can really pay off. For instance, when you’re creating a book, details like cover design, interior formatting, layout, margins, spelling and grammar, proper citation of sources, and so many other things make a big difference.

Here’s an example from the world of music. Listen to Paul McCartney’s bass lines in virtually any Beatles song. He constantly adds in tiny details that make it so much more than a standard bass line. There is true musicianship and artistry at work.

The lesson here is to go the extra mile for your fans or readers. Why? Because you care about them. You care about your craft. You want to give it your best.

John Updike said, “Creativity is merely a plus name for regular creativity. Any activity becomes creative when the doer cares about doing it right, or better.”

Don’t let the devil get in the details. Let the angels in and they will bring excellence to your work that makes it shine.

Today’s Challenge: Spend some extra time on the details of your writing or creative project today to ensure you’re making something you can be proud of.