The idiom "can't see the forest for the trees" means that someone is so focused on small details that they are unable to see the bigger picture or the overall situation. It's like being in a forest and only seeing the individual trees, but not understanding the entire forest.
This phrase is often used when someone is too focused on minor details and loses sight of the main point or objective. For example, if a student is so focused on getting perfect grades in every single assignment, they may miss the fact that they are not actually learning the material or enjoying the learning process.
Another example could be a manager who is so focused on micromanaging their employees that they miss the fact that the team is not working well together and productivity is suffering.
In short, "can't see the forest for the trees" is a reminder to step back and look at the bigger picture, rather than getting bogged down in minor details.
• I can't see the forest for the trees, so please show me the way to the exit.
• Many people get bogged down in the small details, but a skilled leader can see the forest for the trees and create a vision that inspires others to follow.
• The manager couldn't see the forest for the trees, so he missed the big picture in his report.
• Sometimes, when we are too focused on the details, we can't see the forest for the trees, and we need to take a step back to gain perspective.
• She can't see the forest for the trees when it comes to her relationship with her boyfriend.
• As a CEO, it is essential to not get caught up in the day-to-day minutiae and to be able to see the forest for the trees, to make strategic decisions that will benefit the company in the long run.