The popular saying, "God is in the details" emphasizes the importance of being meticulous. But in the process, we sometimes forget to step back and look at the big picture. Often, it's the most obvious thing that gets missed.

When designing, I always print out my designs in a tiny size to review. This forces me to step back and focus on the important elements; it's like looking at something from afar. Call it the minimalist approach to viewing your work.

By doing this, blocks of body copy and other details will be seen as gray matter and a hierarchy of communications will show through. Does the design look over-crowded? Is the type legible? Do branding elements hold up? What's the one most important thing calling for your attention?

Remember, it's easy to become distracted with all the little details. Just don't forget the big stuff, either. Next time, print small to see big.