This proverb means that action taken in time can prevent many troubles. If there is a small tear in our shirt or trousers, we should mend it immediately. Otherwise, there will be need of mending many stitches. We may not be able to control the greatest loss if we do not check a small loss in the beginning. If any bad happening is not controlled in the beginning, it can lead to a greater loss and greater destruction. Those who do not care about small things in life cannot achieve good results. Small issues grow into big problems and then one suffers. If we miss an opportunity, we cannot get it back. A small effort at the right time can save us from a greater harm. Therefore, it is essential that we do not postpone things for future but do them when needed.