Can't Find a Name

[DemonEyes]

Since I was young, because of trauma, I haven't liked my name at all. I physically cringe when people call me by my name. I've gone by nicknames instead, but it means it's still on all paperwork and letters. I just don't like seeing it any more. I feel like that name is attached to the trauma, and I want a fresh start. Since I was 18, (I'm 25 now), I've been thinking about changing it to something I do like, but I'm struggling to find anything that I like or that I think fits me.

Any suggestions as to what I can do to find a name that I like?

Thanks 💙

[hallows_eve]

I don't really have experience with choosing names, but my first thought is to think of what you love and how you define yourself. For example if you really love the fall and that's when you're the happiest, you can try to find names relating to fall, like Autumn, Hazel, Raven, that sort of thing!

I hope you find something that you love and makes you happy!

[Hidden]

What about names from the Greek mythology?

[herathesunflower]

I scoured baby name lists tbh. I have not actually changed my name but I have a name that feels the most like me.

[The_Color_Blue]

The way that I have picked names is to find a word or concept that means something to me. It can be some thing I admire, a value that I feel is important, something to which I aspire, or it can embody something I feel strongly about. Then, I look across the meaning of names, even in other languages – to find the word for it. For instance, the Irish name Soairse (pronounced: Seer-sha) means freedom; Ciel means sky/heaven; Esperanza means hope; Dov means bear.

You might even consider taking a name from a person or character who has characteristics you want to embody. In either method, the name acts a reminder - to ground you, to elevate you, to be the best version of who you are.

[MaggieSylvie]

I changed my name over 50 years ago but on Tuesday a jobsworth nurse was filling in a form for me (when I should have been given it to fill in myself) and she told me I had to use my "Christian" name, which, as a child I was never called by. Just because the hospital service continues to use the name that's on your birth certificate. I do object to the term "Christian name" Some people don't have them!

[Midori in reply to MaggieSylvie]

That bugs me too.

[MaggieSylvie in reply to Midori]

It is surely politically incorrect.