i dont like my name...
hey yall! im new to lemon8 as i usually only use the minimal apps.
my name is Katija Lim and tbh i hate my name... i know my parents gave this name for me but i dislike it since i was enroll in pri and so on.
okay but how it started as it seems like why do i have a chinese surname but my other name sound otherwise.. well my mum is malay and my dad is chinese.. they are a lovely parents and they bring me lots of joys and fun, pamper me as well but i just don't really like my name and no i don't blame them.. but i wish i could have a btr name...
so as you guys know for chinese we usually follow our dad surname .. so that is how i got LIM.. and for my main name my mum get to name me which is KATIJA as well as binte in the middle. Of cos being a mixed kid get a lot of Oooos and Aaaahs when im in school but the name jus kind of puts me off..
i lowkey jus wish that they will name me an english name instead with LIM and binte still stayed.. Maybe like ... kathrina lim binte // or Kaitlyn Lim Binte //.. but uk i do respect my mum for giving me this name as its part of her naming me...
i and her relationship is somewhat okay.. jus the usually mother and daughter thing and shes also a very nice lady...
but till now whenever i go to school or intern or work , introducing my name their reaction is "HUH?" or like "Kaaa what?" i mean yea nth wrong but i jus wished its in english ... oh yea and in sec sch i vividly rmb when i was in sec 1 and we were told to introduce ourself , when i said my name was katija , some kids were laughing and called me nasty names.
of cos now im 22 this year and ive sort of gotten used to it but i want to change my name legally on the IC but i know it requires a little bit of process like finding a lawyer to change name legally and pay a amount to change my NRIC , passport and also all my bank details name too..
but i did consider to change it tho...
i am in a dilemma guys...
what are your thoughts?
Having a name that reflects diverse cultural roots can be both a blessing and a challenge. I can really relate to the struggle of feeling disconnected from a name that others find unusual or hard to recognize. For many mixed heritage individuals, their names become a complicated symbol of identity, blending elements from different cultures that may not always resonate with their peers or even themselves. In school or work environments, a unique name can draw unwanted attention, sometimes leading to awkward reactions or even teasing. This can deeply affect a person’s self-esteem and how they perceive their own identity. However, as I’ve learned over time, embracing your name also means embracing your unique story and heritage. The decision to legally change a name is significant and often involves more than just paperwork; it means redefining how the world addresses your identity. Costs, legal processes, and updating official documents such as passports and bank accounts are necessary considerations. It's important to weigh these against the emotional relief or confidence a new name might bring. In many cultures, names are chosen with love and carry family histories. Changing a name can sometimes feel like distancing oneself from that heritage, which adds emotional complexity. However, it’s equally valid to seek a name that makes you comfortable and happy, especially if your current name causes you distress. If you’re thinking about a name change, consider trying out nicknames or English versions of your name informally first. This can also be a way to ease into a new identity without immediate legal commitment. Talking openly with family about how you feel might also help them understand your perspective. Above all, remember that no matter what name you choose, your worth and identity are rooted in who you are, not just what you are called. Sharing stories about names and identity can open doors to greater understanding and acceptance among diverse communities.