'Tis the early bird catches the worm.

Acting before others can give a person first access to an opportunity or reward. The bird finds food because it arrives ahead of its competitors.

The proverb favors prompt action when timing matters. It does not mean that every early attempt will succeed, only that delay may leave fewer options.

Use it to encourage someone to start promptly or to explain why arriving, applying, or preparing ahead of others may be advantageous when an opportunity is limited.