Name change?
Hello! I am transnobinary and have been spelling my birth name as Mattie as it is more neutral, but it isn’t helping people get the idea . Because I look and sound feminine and spelling can’t be heard in speech, I still get misgendered a lot. I want to change my name but at the same time I don’t because I don’t want my family or certain friends to know I want a different name. I’m 17 and a junior in highschool, so I can’t go to college and change it. Any advice?
Hello @Katherinesmom
It sounds like you want to change your name, but aren't ready to change it legally and come out to everyone. That is okay! If you don't feel ready to come out to your family or certain friends, then please don't feel pressured to do so. Come out when you feel ready :) Do you have any friends you do feel comfortable telling? How would you feel about telling those friends about your desired name change and asking them not to tell anyone else?
Hi,
Changing and trying out new names that works for us are an important piece of discovering who you are in this world. I actually wanted to encourage you to watch a 2017 movie "Lady Bird", that talks about a young woman who wasn't non binary, but struggled to find her place in this world. Along her journey, she changed her name and she started going by "Ladybird", which obvious isn't a normal name at all, and she kept it throught her growing up till the end of the film. I thought it will give you some good inspiration about choosing a name and be open about it. After all, we all have a place in this world, and it isn't always going to match what your parents have envisioned for you. What name will you choose if you are to start going by another name? Is there something that will work for you, while being gender neutral if you prefer to stay closeted?
Changing your name is not an easy journey, but it is actually a lot easier than transitioning. I think going through an exercise like this can help prepare you mentally regarding what to expect regardless of which direction you wish to take moving forward. Good luck and lots of love with your journey! 💕