head start

noun2

1. •
   An advantage consisting in starting a competition or task earlier than might be expected; given (or taken), for example, prior to the beginning of a race.

   • Fred gave his younger brother a five-minute head start in the Easter egg hunt.
   • I want to set off at dawn to get a head start over the competition.
2. •
   A factor conducive to superiority and success.

   • His father's money gave him a head start in life.