What’s in a name? For many of us, our names are more than just words—they’re the foundation of our identity, culture, and history. When someone shortens or alters it, even with good intentions, it can feel like a piece of who we are is being lost.

The Struggle of Fitting In

Growing up, nicknames often serve as a bridge—simpler, easier, or more relatable in certain environments. But as we grow into ourselves, we may feel the pull to embrace our full names, reclaiming the richness and individuality they hold.

The transition from a nickname to a full name isn’t always smooth. Whether in school, at work, or among friends, many people with unique or culturally significant names face challenges. A mispronounced name or a casual dismissal can unintentionally send a message: “You don’t belong.”

A Personal Choice

For some, nicknames are a way to adapt and make interactions easier. For others, they’re a coping mechanism in environments that don’t make space for diversity.

Take Gerardo, who became “Jerry” under pressure to fit in, or Yejin, who tirelessly coached her peers on how to pronounce her Korean name.

Personally, I’ve navigated similar waters. My name, Jadsadarng, is deeply tied to my Thai heritage. In Thailand, it’s common for everyone to have a nickname, as our full names are often long and complex. While I’ve always had my nickname “Jade,” I’ve found joy and pride in encouraging people to try my full name. It’s not about perfection; it’s about effort and respect.

I’m reminded of a Chinese friend, Meilin, who faced a different challenge. Her name was often mispronounced when she arrived here, so she decided to change her name to “Michelle” to make it easier for others. While it was her choice, it also highlights the pressure some feel to adapt their identity for the comfort of others.

Why SayMyName Matters

Making the leap to your full name is a powerful act of self-expression. Platforms like SayMyName make this journey easier by offering tools that help others learn and practice name pronunciations.

SayMyName doesn’t just help you share your name—it encourages connection and understanding. Imagine attending a graduation ceremony or starting a new job and knowing your colleagues and peers are saying your name just as you do.

Let the Numbers Speak

• 43% of employees report feeling a greater sense of belonging when their name is correctly pronounced. (Harvard Business Review, 2021)
• A LinkedIn study revealed that 76% of job seekers believe name pronunciation tools are crucial for workplace inclusion. (LinkedIn Workforce Report, 2022)
• 88% of students say being addressed correctly by name improves their classroom experience. (Name Coach Survey, 2020)

Take the First Step

Your name is an essential part of who you are. Whether you choose to keep using a nickname or embrace your full name, the choice is yours—and it’s worth celebrating.

If you’ve ever wondered how to bridge the gap, tools like SayMyName make it simple for others to meet you where you are. Visit SayMyName to learn how you can empower others to pronounce your name correctly and celebrate your identity.

Your name is your story. Let it shine.

Sources

1. Harvard Business Review, “The Importance of Pronouncing Names Correctly in the Workplace”
2. LinkedIn Workforce Report, “Name Pronunciation Tools for Workplace Inclusion”
3. Name Coach Survey, “Impact of Name Pronunciation on Student Experiences”