You don't need to proof modern yeast unless the yeast is old. I keep my yeast in the freezer and it lasts at least 6 months.

I have a small jar of yeast that I keep in the cupboard and fill it from the larger package of yeast in the freezer.

In normal practice just add the water first, then the yeast followed by the other ingredients. If the yeast is old put a bit in a bowl of warm water with a pinch of sugar and wait 5 minutes. You should see a change.