Proverb: when embarking on a great undertaking, begin with immediate, doable steps.
計画が大きすぎて迷ったら、『先ず隗より始めよ』の精神で小さな作業から取りかかろう。
If the plan is too big and you feel lost, follow the spirit of 'start with the nearest step' and begin with small tasks.
上司は会議で『先ず隗より始めよ』と言って、まず自分が手本を示した。
The boss said 'start with the nearest step' in the meeting and first set an example himself.
Proverb: he who first suggests something should be the first to do it; lead by example.
彼が手伝えと言うなら、『先ず隗より始めよ』だから彼がまず手本を見せるべきだ。
If he tells others to help, then 'he who suggests should start first' — he should show the example himself.
会議で意見を強く言った人が率先して動かないのはおかしい。まさに『先ず隗より始めよ』だ。
It's odd when the person who voiced strong opinions doesn't take the lead. That's exactly 'start with the nearest step.'