First things first

First things first; addresses to young men.
[1894 G. Jackson (title)]

The dear lady was‥incapable‥of putting first things first.
[1920 W. Riley Yorkshire Suburb 136]

They dropped the talking; first things first, as Kate always felt about a pleasant meal.
[1979 ‘L. Black’ Penny Murders iv.]

‘I think the principle of “first things first” does apply,’ says Al Gore, ‘and has to be followed if we are to have any chance of success.’
[2002 Spectator 10 Aug. 20]

Related to: orderliness

Bibliography of major proverb collections and works cited from modern editions is available here.

The most important task gets priority, as in I very much wanted to see that movie, but first things first--the paper's due tomorrow. This adage was first recorded in 1545.

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Title of published work

• First Things First (Bob Bennett Album)
• First Things First (book)
• First Things First 1964 manifesto
• First Things First 2000 manifesto

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