In sociology, Matthew effect was a term coined by Robert k.Merton to describe how, among other things, eminent scientists will often get more credit than a comparatively unknown researcher even if their work is similar; it also means that credit will usually be given to researchers who are already famous: for example, a prize will almost always be awarded to the most senior researcher involved in a project, even if all the work was done by a graduate student.

This matthew effect reminds us to be aware of our situations, whether we take the lead, or in the middle, or lag behind, what should we do, so that we could possibly avoid the punishment from this matthew effect. It is acknowledged that we are in a severe competition in all respects, our evolvement or dissolution lie on our places in the competition. So in a sense, if you want to survive the jungle, you must be strong, then you can be stronger, if you are weak, you have to take measures to improve and become bigger. Of course, this is not all the same to fit all the cases, because society is not utterly governed by darwinism,  for there are some other forces behind the scene. To adapt the changing world, one nation has to work out strategy to cope with the globlization, to adapt to the business competion, company must enlarge its market share, either by consolidation or merger, to accelerate its growth, or avoid being eliminated from the market. To a worker, he must does his best to secure his position, status and interest.

In the case of time allocation, the prime time slot should be alloted to the most important agenda, it is efficient, you can achieve your goal much easier. To understand matthew effect helps you manage your life with consciousness of your place.