Its good to know the detail. If you’re a detail person it will be really important to you that the work you do and the information you have is accurate, validated and auditable. You will need to be reassured that the information you have can be traced back to its source so that you are able to robustly defend any challenge to it.
It’s good to see the bigger picture too. If you’re a bigger picture person it will be really important to you that the work you do and the information you have is connected to the strategy, vision, mission and values of your organisation. You will need to be reassured that the information you have moves your organisation in the right direction.
It’s good to have both. If you are a detail person without summary knowledge of the bigger picture, your organisation will suffer. If you are a bigger picture person without a basic understanding of the detail your organisation will flounder.
When you are looking up, occasionally look down, or you’ll trip. When you’re looking down, occasionally look up, or you’ll get squashed.
Being exclusively in one zone or another limits your ability to see connections, potential, pitfalls and potholes. Zoom in your gaze, spread out your wings and realise your potential!