"پدرم به من گفت 'قیمتت را در ابتدا بگو'."

Setting clear expectations from the get-go is crucial. The main idea here is to establish your value upfront—whether it’s in business, personal relationships, or any interaction where negotiation is involved. When you state what you want early on, you avoid confusion, set boundaries, and create a mutual understanding. This wisdom can help prevent future conflicts and foster respect and transparency.

Let’s consider the context. This piece of advice seems to come from a place of experience and practicality. Imagine a young professional starting out in their career. They might be eager to prove themselves and thus, hesitate to negotiate their salary or clearly state their worth. The father’s advice is a reminder to be upfront about one's expectations. It teaches the importance of valuing oneself and setting a standard.

Think about a freelancer—a graphic designer, maybe. They get a call from a potential client who needs a logo. The designer follows the father's advice and immediately discusses their rates, payment terms, and the scope of work before starting the project. By naming their price in the beginning, the freelancer ensures that there are no surprises or awkward conversations later. Both parties know what to expect, and the groundwork for a smooth transaction is laid.

So, how can you apply this advice in your own life? Start by knowing your worth. Whether you're negotiating a salary, discussing terms for a freelance project, or setting boundaries in a relationship, be clear and upfront. It’s about communication and respect—for yourself and the other party. Don’t wait until things get complicated or murky; address the important points at the outset.

Let’s take a more relatable scenario. Picture you're at a flea market, eyeing a vintage watch. You love it, but you also know you need to stick to your budget. Instead of playing the negotiating game indefinitely, you decide to name your price in the beginning. You tell the seller, “I love this watch, but I can only pay $50 for it.” The seller knows where you stand, and you’ve set the stage for a clear negotiation. Maybe they’ll accept, counteroffer, or you’ll walk away knowing you stayed true to your budget.

This approach doesn’t just apply to money—it works in personal relationships too. Imagine you’re starting a new friendship. It’s important to communicate your boundaries early on. If you value punctuality, for example, let your friend know that being on time matters to you. This way, you establish respect and understanding right from the start.

In essence, this advice is about clarity and foresight. It’s about taking control of situations and ensuring that everyone involved is on the same page. So next time you find yourself entering a new situation, remember the father's wisdom. Name your price in the beginning—be it literal or metaphorical—and watch how it paves the way for smoother, more respectful interactions.