Consider what sort of emotional flavor the name has for you. Names might feel gentle, sophisticated, quirky, or high-powered. Find one that fits your personality. Look up the meaning of the name to make sure it feels right for you. [2] X Research source
Only do this if it feels right for you. Some people want to distance themselves completely from their given name (often called a deadname), and so they choose a name that’s totally different.
The person doesn’t have to be real! You can name yourself after a character from your favorite book or movie, like “Luna” from Harry Potter, “Nala” from the Lion King, or “Orlando” (a really cool transgender character from a Virginia Woolf book). If you love Greek mythology, you could call yourself “Athena” or “Artemis,” or if you love theater, you could choose a name from Shakespeare like “Romeo. ”
You can take the name of a word that you find inspiring, like “Hope,” “Justice,” or “Destiny. ” You can take the name of a place you connect to, like “Brooklyn,” “Sydney,” “Denver,” or “Kenya. ”[6] X Research source
If you want a fully feminine or masculine name, avoid names that sound ambiguous, such as Gene/Jean. What is considered a male or female name depends upon what culture you’re in and where you live. For example, in the US, Ashley is mostly a women’s name, but in the UK, it’s mostly a men’s name.
Involving your closest loved ones with the process of choosing a new name can bring your family closer together. But, if they suggest names that don’t feel right, don’t feel pressured to take them.
If your religion has a book, like the Bible or the Quran, try flipping through for names. You can filter on baby naming sites for particular religions or ethnicities. You could also name yourself after someone in your family tree, like your great-aunt Meredith who you’ve heard wonderful stories about.
You can try taking on a family last name, like the maiden name of a beloved family member. If you’re in a serious relationship or marriage, you can take the last name of your partner. You can take the last name of someone who inspires you, or just a last name that feels natural.
Once you’re pretty sure about a name, practice signing your signature until you can sign it all in one, fast flourish. It doesn’t have to look pretty, but it will feel great to be able to sign it quickly and really own your signature. Consider how easy it is to spell the names you’re considering. It can get tiring having to spell out your name for others, and it can lead to mistakes in email addresses and so on. So pick an easily spelled name if this is an issue for you.
Some feminine names can be given a boyish nickname (e. g. Alexandra shortening to Alex, Christina to Chris). If you don’t like this, choose a name that can’t be shortened this way.
Consider how easy the name is to pronounce. Will other people be able to get it right? If you’re soft-spoken, are people likely to misinterpret you?
Some states require you to attend a court hearing before they give you a certified copy of your name change. You can use the certified copy of your name change to officially change your birth certificate and driver’s license. If you’re under 18 years old, and not an emancipated minor, a parent or guardian will have to apply for your name change for you. If they don’t agree to, you may have to wait until you’re 18.
