Is it possible to go by a different name?

Hello everyone, I’ve been wondering for a few years about how to go by a different name in my everyday life, reason being that I absolutely don’t like my name, I won’t go into details but most of my memories about it is people making fun of it, I also just don’t think it fits me.

Unfortunately, from what I’ve read, it’s not possible to change my name without a major, serious reason in my country, so legally changing my name or having a different one would have to wait until I eventually travel to another country.

So, is it possible to go by a completely different name in your everyday life? I don’t mean a short version of my name or using my middle name, but a completely different unrelated name.

I’m honestly confused. I’ve already picked a name which I absolutely love but I’m open for options (maybe I should create a new thread for that?)

Anyway, I’m mostly looking for help on how to go about it, specially with people who already know me, if it’s even possible of course, thank you in advance!

[name_m]Hi[/name_m] there!! [name_u]Welcome[/name_u] to Nameberry!

So I know it’s not exactly what you’re looking for, but I went by my first name for the first 15-ish years of my life, then decided to go by my (completely different) middle name.

It was a weird transition, but I’d say it’s definitely worth it, so here’s how I went about it!

First of all, I told all of my closest friends and family. I pretty much just explained my reasoning (Hey! I’m going to go by this name now because I feel like it will fit me better, and will help me enter into a new chapter of my life. I know it may take some time, but if you would call me this from now on, I’d really appreciate it!)
Hopefully, they will all be respectful; if not, keep pushing on! I promise it’s worth it. I still have some family that refuse to call me by my middle name, but in the grand scheme of things I have learned to ignore it.

Then, I would go about changing your online presence. All social media profile, emails, anything of the sort, change to your chosen name. Those you have not told will figure it out, and will hopefully be kind about it.

There will be a really weird period of time when you have started going by your new name for awhile (but not too long) where you will feel like you have no name. It is totally normal I promise, eventually your new name will start to feel more and more like you :slight_smile:

If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask! It is definitely a long process, but it is so freeing and worth it. Best of luck to you!!

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I’m in a similar boat and while I don’t have a ton of personal experience, I know numerous people who go by a chosen name. You will need to tell all of your friends/family/acquaintances whom you care to call you by the new name. It does take some time to do and for people to adjust to, but they should hopefully be receptive, respectful and make an effort to use your new name. When you meet new people, go right ahead and introduce yourself as the new name, without mention of the old one (unless it’s important logistically.) Good luck!