7 Things You Can do if You Hate Your Name ...

7 Things You Can do if You Hate Your Name ...
By Alison • May 30, 2024

How many of us really love our name? It's strange how we change so many things about our appearance, but stick with the name we were given at birth. Yet often we don't really like our name, and would secretly prefer something different. But what if you really loathe your name and feel so wrong using it? Here are some things you can do if you hate your name …

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1. Consider Why You Hate It

Why do you actually hate your name? Is it because of unpleasant associations, or that it just doesn't feel right for you? Do you dislike it because it's unusual? Work out why you don't like your name. Once you understand the reasons, you may be able to make yourself more comfortable with it.

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Understanding the root of your disdain may give you the tools to reframe your feelings or explain them to others. For instance, if a strikingly distinctive name is the culprit, you might discover pride in its uniqueness over time or recognize the memorable impression it leaves. Conversely, if it doesn't resonate with your sense of self, experimenting with variations or nicknames could offer a sense of control and personal identity. Embracing the story behind your name might also help; knowing it carries a family legacy or a special meaning can transform your perception of it from a burden to an honor.

2. Shorten It

Using a shorter version of your name can make it more palatable. Perhaps you don't like being called Alexandra because it's too long, or you're more of a tomboy type. Some people probably call you Alex already; just ask everyone else to use the shorter version as well. It may take some time for them to get used to the shorter version, but they will do.

3. Use Your Middle Name or Nickname

You can also use a middle name or nickname instead of your first name. For example, if your parents picked an unusual name like Princess, you're not going to be taken very seriously if you want to become a lawyer! Switch to your middle name instead if it's more conventional.

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If using your middle name feels too formal or doesn't quite fit, a nickname can be a fabulous choice. It could be a shortened version of your name or something entirely new that resonates with your personality. Imagine going from Bartholomew to Bart, instantly adopting a vibe that's easier to carry in social situations. It's all about crafting an identity that you're comfortable with and gives you the confidence to make your mark in the world. Remember, it's not just a name; it’s a statement of who you are.

4. Go for a Variation

You might like your name more if you used a variation such as a foreign spelling. Sometimes that will look and feel more 'right'. If your name is Elizabeth, what about changing it to Isabella, which can feel more exotic? Margaret instantly becomes more exciting when turned into Margarita or Greta.

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Consider exploring the etymological roots of your name for inspiration; many names have fascinating histories that might resonate with you. For instance, if Alexander doesn't spark joy, you might find Alessandro or Sasha to be a refreshing twist. Embrace the opportunity to reinvent your identity while still holding on to the essence of your original name. Remember that a slight modification can sometimes make a world of difference in how you perceive and project yourself.

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5. Look for an Inspirational Namesake

Perhaps you didn't like being called Megan because it reminds you of another Megan that you hated at school. Looking for a famous namesake to inspire you can help you see your name in a new light. Enter Megan Fox - who would mind sharing a name with her?

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You can draw inspiration from historical figures, celebrities, or even fictional characters that carry the same name as you. Imagine sharing your moniker with a notable leader like Margaret Thatcher, or a literary heroine such as Elizabeth Bennet. Reflecting on their strengths and achievements can imbue your own name with additional meaning and pride. It's like a touch of their sparkle has been sprinkled onto you. Plus, when introduced, it might spark a delightful conversation about someone you admire, further associating your name with positive, empowering traits.

6. Change the Spelling

Sometimes a simple change of spelling can make your name feel more comfortable. I'm not that fond of my name, though I've never thought about changing it. But if I wanted I could spell it Allison, Alyson or Allyson. Similarly, Katherine can become Catherine or Katheryn. It might not seem that big a difference, but for some people a different spelling just feels 'right'.

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If you don't like your name, there are a few things you can do to make it feel more comfortable. Changing the spelling of your name is one of the easiest and most effective ways to make your name feel more like you. For example, if your name is Allison, you could spell it Alyson or Allyson. Similarly, Katherine can become Catherine or Katheryn. It may seem like a small change, but for some people, a different spelling can make all the difference.

There are other ways to make your name feel more like you as well. For instance, you could adopt a nickname or alter your name in some other way. You could even create a completely new name for yourself. This is more common than you might think; many people have changed their names to something they felt more connected to.

You can also find ways to make your name more meaningful. For example, you could research the meaning behind your name and find out what it says about you. You could also add a meaningful middle name to your name, or combine two names that you like to create a new name.

7. Choose a New Name

Why should only famous people get to choose the name they want to be known by? If your name doesn't feel right for you, change it. After all, our parents choose a name without knowing the person we'll turn into. So it's not really surprising that we may end up not fitting that name.

You can be known by a new name informally without going through a legal name change. It's up to you. Oh, and apologies to anyone who has the names I've mentioned and loves their name- I'm not suggesting that there's anything wrong with them, but have simply used them as examples for how to pick a 'new' name.

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Feedback Junction

Where Thoughts and Opinions Converge

  • Inna

    2015-10-12T10:36:23.476Z

    I like the name Alison! :) My uncle never went by his first name, always his second, so I've never known him as a "Noel"!
  • BadGiven+Surname

    2023-02-04T06:10:36.920Z

    I have always HATED my given name. I've never felt a connection to it...it has never felt like me. It's ugly to me. I cringe every time I have to see, hear, or write it. I made the decision earlier this year to to go through the process of legally changing both my given name AND my surname. My surname Im gonna change bc I wanna erase any connection to my abusive father whose surname I inherited.
  • peony

    2015-10-12T08:51:51.019Z

    Hard one I used to hate my nAme but now I love it
  • Sham

    2022-08-29T12:07:02.452Z

    My name is sham and i come from an arab country that i was named after. I didn't really like the name to begin with and i hated it even more once i learned it's an english word meaning "fake". Any idea for variations other than sam? Thanks
  • Grace

    2015-10-12T12:25:30.609Z

    ... It will take you to a page where you type in your first name and gender and it uses numerology to explain the influence the name has on you. You can even delve deeper and do a full name report- and it starts to get creepy how right on it is. Grace provides too serious a nature and causes me anxiety and doesn't allow me to feel care-free or laid back naturally. So I plan on changing to a sweeter name:)
  • Isabella

    2022-08-01T05:43:42.211Z

    Like my name's Isabella and I don't really like it's origin, pronounciation, and sex traits. I can't find a proper unisex version of the name tho
  • Tiffany

    2022-12-07T06:20:20.465Z

    Nothing could help. my name that screams consumerism and generic bitchy chinese person.
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