My name is Jeanne. Throughout my lifetime, I have been called many names, ranging from Jean to Jennifer (which I STILL don't get to this day). I learned to embrace the fact that my name is different because it makes me stand out from other people. However, it does make daily social interactions a little interesting and somewhat difficult.
1. The nicknames.
GiphyDoesn't matter what your name is, if it's different, you'll get a weird nickname somehow. Somehow. My weird nickname? Jeanne in a Bottle. Growing up, kids used to demand I give them three wishes. When people ask me that today, I just play along. It isn't original, but I've gotten used to it.
2. "Is your name short for anything?"
GiphyYes. It's short for, "I'm tired of people questioning the validity of my name as is, and not being short for any 'normal' name."
3. Telling the Starbucks barista your name literally makes you internally cringe.
Attached above is one of the many pictures I have taken when my name has been butchered at Starbucks. And yes, two college guys DID start making fun of my name right in front of me. That's another thing about having an unusual name: No one quite understands it, so they insult it instead.
4. Giving a fake order name at fast food restaurants.
GiphyOn several occasions, I've just used the name of the person I was with knowing that their name was simple, hassle-free, and would be spelled and called out correctly. Eliminates all problems, as well as the confused looks from the cashiers.
5. The mispronunciations.
GiphyMy name is pronounced "Jee-knee," but for some reason, even people who have known me for years call me "Jean." JEAN IS NOT MY NAME!
6. Wondering what life would be like if you had a different name.
GiphyWhat if my name was Emily or Maria? I mean, it's really hard to mess up those names. It's a weird concept to think about.
7. Being the only person with your name that people know.
GiphyYour name is so unique or uncommon, it's hard to forget. It's also hard to find another individual with that name, which is why most people only know one person like that, and that person is you.
8. Spelling your name out, and people still getting it wrong.
GiphyThis one hurts. Sometimes I've had to spell my name letter for letter, and people still got it wrong even after the second or third try. I don't get it. I just don't.
9. Being astonished, but elated when people get your name right on the first try.
GiphyNothing makes me happier. But also, there's a small part of me wondering how they got it right immediately. Are they geniuses?
10. You know your name is unique, and you've embraced it.
GiphyStanding out isn't always a bad thing. Learning to appreciate how cool your name is truly is one of the best things you can do. You know that when people say your name, everyone knows who they're talking about. They don't have to specify a person by their last name. You are different. You are unique. You are awesome.
