first things first

first things first

1. Let's deal with matters of highest priority first; let's deal with matters in logical sequence.
   • 1830, Christian Observer, On Prophetic Speculation:

     There is a sound common-sense maxim, frequently heard among the wise and prudent of this world—First things first, […]

   • 1922, H. G. Wells, chapter 4, in The Secret Places of the Heart:

     “First things first,” said Sir Richmond. “If we set about getting fuel sanely, if we do it as the deliberate, co-operative act of the whole species, then it follows that we shall look very closely into the use that is being made of it.”

   • 1999 July 23, Frank Pellegrini, “House Republicans Quell Mutiny Over Tax Bounty”, in Time‎, archived from the original on 30 April 2009:

     Judging by the polls—which still favor Clinton and his mantra of “first things first” (Medicare and education)—the public senses it too.

   • 2007 October 21, Jenni Muir, “Essentials for a wannabe chef—sugar, cream, mouse”, in Sunday Times‎, UK:

     First things first, you need the right tools.

Can be used as an aphorism or admonition, but also to introduce a topic or list.