Changing My Name?

[len1234]

I've wanted to change my name since I was a child. I don't necessarily have an awful name and its actually really common, it's just that I really don't like it. The only reason I haven't changed my name as an adult is because people know me by my name and I feel like it would be weird to others if I change it.

I know this is kind of strange but was curious if anyone has changed their names and how it went. Also, whilst I appreciate honesty, please remember to be kind.

There was a thread a while back and people said they had changed their name and others soon got used to it, and of course new people would just accept your new name. Just change it by deed poll then you will have all the official paperwork to change bank, work, driving licence, passport etc.

My mum changed her name when she was around 21/22-ish. Nearly everyone accepted her new name with no problems. Except her wanker father of course, who refused to ever use it.

I don't even know how I would go about telling people I had changed my name honestly. @MaskingForIt Was there are particular reason your mum changed her name?

Is your name Helen ? That is wonderful mame

@cockroachcrumble12 No, it's short for my surname.

Hi OP. I’m 34 and have just changed my name back in April. First name and surname. I went the full hog! I always hated both (heavily ethnic and unpronounceable name) and wanted a fresh start. It’s the best thing I have ever done and I feel so much happier and confident about my name. It was so easy to do and friends and family have been accepting and supportive and wonderful. I changed careers, location and am currently single so it was the best possible time to change my name in my life. Friends have already got used to it. People are actually surprisingly accommodating and remember to use my name. I myself often forget! Yes it will take some getting used to but after a year or so, everyone will be so used to it, they won’t care at all about your old name! Just think how quickly you got used to your friends surnames when they got married.

I understand your concern as forename is a bit different and more intimate than a surname but changing my forename and surname was the best decision I ever made.

@Buttercup77 It's great to hear people were so accepting as that's what I am worried about. I think now would be the best time for me as I am going into a new career next year as well. Thank you so much for sharing, that's very encouraging.

@len1234 was there a particular reason your mum changed her name

She just didn’t like it, and to be fair it was a pretty fuddy duddy old person name. I suspect there was a bit of wanting to break away from her childhood identity too, as her father was a less than splendid character, although she never explicitly said that.

@MaskingForIt I'd say I have pretty similar reasons then. Thank you so much.

Hope it goes well for you. Best wishes.

I recently reverted to my family name from my married name, feels great. Go for it OP!

I changed my first name, well just lost one letter really but was a real lightbulb moment and relief from the condescending way my birth name was used by Mother and sibling from a deeply abusive childhood to present day.

I'm currently debating adopting DP's surname, perhaps the only thing stopping me is my present surname and heritage is deeply entwined within the city I was born and live.