Success often hinges on details that are not immediately visible. While some details are apparent and occur in the present, others are subtle, potential risks that may only manifest in the future. Recognizing and mitigating these invisible details requires a unique blend of wisdom and determination.
A visionary business decision in hotel construction
In 1946, M.K. Guertin established a network of hotels that would later become the renowned Best Western brand. Known for his meticulous approach, Guertin emphasized the importance of addressing even the smallest details during the construction of a 700-room hotel in California.
The hotel was completed after three years of construction, and Guertin toured the property. While satisfied with the overall result, he made an unusual request: He ordered all the bathroom faucets and showerheads in the hotel’s 700 rooms to be turned on at once.
The results were startling. The drainage system, unable to handle the enormous water flow, began to overflow in the bathrooms. Wastewater surged out of drains and toilets, revealing a critical flaw in the plumbing system.
Although the construction team argued that such a scenario was highly unlikely, Guertin stood firm. “You think it’s impossible,” he said, “but what if it happens one day?” The pipes were replaced with ones twice the diameter, ensuring the system could handle extreme conditions.
Remarkably, the scenario Guertin foresaw — an event considered improbable — occurred three times over the years, in 1953, 1979, and 2001. Thanks to his insistence on addressing this invisible detail, the hotel avoided potentially disastrous flooding each time.
This story highlights the importance of considering hidden details, even those that seem unlikely to matter. Guertin’s foresight and determination ensured not only the success of the project, but also the long-term reputation of the Best Western brand.
A paperclip exposes a secret agent
During World War II, Germany trained numerous spies and sent them into Soviet territory through air drops. One such operative claimed to be an electrical engineer when apprehended by Soviet security agency KGB. He presented authentic-looking identification and skillfully answered technical questions, leaving no immediate evidence of espionage.
Unable to find any incriminating proof, the KGB was preparing to release him. However, Sokolov, one of the officers, decided to closely examine the man’s documents alongside several Soviet-issued IDs. After careful observation, Sokolov suddenly exclaimed: “He’s a German spy! Arrest him!”
The key detail? The staples binding the documents. Soviet-made IDs were fastened with ordinary staples that rusted over time, while the alleged engineer’s documents used shiny, stainless steel staples. Despite the wear on his ID, the staples remained in pristine condition.
This tiny, seemingly insignificant detail provided the evidence the KGB needed. Acting on this discovery, they captured 170 German spies, dealing a severe blow to Germany’s intelligence network in the Soviet Union.
Success lies in the details
Whether in business, espionage, or daily life, success often depends on recognizing and addressing invisible details that others overlook. M.K. Guertin’s plumbing foresight and the KGB’s sharp observation of a staple demonstrate the power of diligence and attention to detail.
These examples serve as a reminder that hidden risks often lurk beneath the surface, waiting to disrupt even the best-laid plans. Cultivating the wisdom to foresee these challenges and the courage to act on them can make all the difference between failure and success.
Translated by Audrey Wang
Follow us on X, Facebook, or Pinterest
