A teenager has expressed his desire to change his name as soon as he is legally able, citing constant jokes and concerns that his name will prevent him from being taken seriously in his future career.
Reddit Confession
The student, who goes by the name Teddy, took to Reddit to vent his frustrations. He wrote: "I didn't always dislike this name but now that I'm growing older I've grown a strong distaste for it. It's so annoying dealing with people poking fun at my name and calling me teddy bear. I can't imagine when I'm old enough to attend business meetings having to introduce myself as teddy as a fully grown man."
According to Bruce Lansky, an author of name-related books, approximately 50,000 Americans change their name each year.
Attempts to Use Middle Name
Teddy revealed that he had previously tried to go by his middle name, Alejandro, but it never caught on. "I don't know why my parents would pick such a stupid name for me, not even Theodore. But no, I get Teddy. I'm so sick of it," he added.
Community Advice
Most Reddit users agreed that he should change his name when possible, but some offered interim solutions. One user commented: "When I hear Teddy my first thought is of Roosevelt - a complicated guy, but largely associated with toughness, leadership and masculinity. Anyone teasing you about your name is a schmuck."
Another suggested: "Start introducing yourself as Ted. It sounds more mature."
A third user noted: "I hope people who are all for 'naming a baby what you plan to call them' see this post and see it's not that simple or black and white. If you plan on calling your baby Petey or Tommy or in your case, Teddy, that doesn't mean you should name your child that name."
Another user advised: "Why don't you start using Alejandro? It is your name as well and you love that name."
