Life is a continued struggle. Sometimes we lose focus, not keeping ‘first things first.’ This is part of the aspect of Tiferet – Harmony – in life.
“Tiferet – harmony – is critical for successful leadership. Do I manage a smooth-running operation? Am I organized? Do I give clear instructions to my subordinates? Do I have difficulty delegating power? Does my organization work as a team? Do we have frequent staff meetings to coordinate our goals and efforts?”
(From the Aish Omer Meditation)
According to Stephen Covey, Habit 3 (corresponding to Tiferet) is about life management as well–your purpose, values, roles, and priorities. What are “first things?” First things are those things you, personally, find of most worth. If you put first things first, you are organizing and managing time and events according to the personal priorities you established.
In the Torah, Rebecca represents Tiferet as she, like Jacob, knows how things must turn out. She integrates all aspects of mercy and judgment as needed to accomplish her purpose.