expression
start with the first step; begin with what is at hand
Proverb advising that large undertakings should begin with concrete, immediate actions rather than distant plans. Often used to encourage taking initiative.
See also: 隗より始めよ
大きな改革を目指すなら、まず隗より始めよだ。
If you aim for major reform, start with the first step.
expression
the one who proposes should act first; lead by example
Proverb meaning that the person who suggests an idea should be the first to carry it out. Implies that leadership requires personal commitment.
See also: 隗より始めよ
君が言い出したんだから、まず隗より始めよ、君からやってくれ。
Since you proposed it, you should be the first to do it—lead by example.
A shorter form of the same proverb, omitting まず. Used in similar contexts but slightly less emphatic about the immediate first step.
From a Chinese historical anecdote recorded in the 'Strategies of the Warring States' (戦国策). The full story involves an advisor urging a king to start a grand project by first honoring a nearby worthy (隗) to attract greater talents. The phrase became a Japanese proverb encouraging practical first steps.