When it comes to naming a child, many people can become quite protective over their chosen names. This is understandable—after all, a name is a lifelong identifier for your child! However, it’s essential to recognize that no one truly “owns” a baby name. Everyone should have the freedom to name their child whatever they desire.
A survey conducted by Modern Parenting revealed that over 12,000 readers weighed in on the concept of “baby name stealing.” Surprisingly, more than half of respondents felt this phenomenon is real, but it shouldn’t be. Can a baby name be “stolen”? The unequivocal answer is no. The idea of stealing suggests that someone has taken possession of something that belongs to another, which simply isn’t applicable in the case of names.
Baby naming can bring out some odd behaviors in people. Some parents guard their chosen names as if they were state secrets, while others throw out a barrage of different names, seemingly trying to stake their claim. Yet, the truth remains: naming your child is a personal choice that primarily affects your family. If someone else decides to use a name you love, perhaps consider it a compliment. It might mean your choice is so appealing that others want to follow suit.
Take, for instance, a story shared by a reader named Jenna. She expressed her frustration when her friend announced they were naming their baby “Ethan,” a name Jenna had long cherished. “I told her I was using it for my son,” Jenna lamented. “I couldn’t believe she chose it, too!” But really, can anyone claim exclusivity over a name like “Ethan”? The answer is no. The notion that someone is deliberately trying to irritate you by using a name you love is quite peculiar.
If your family has a tradition of passing down names, such as “Chance Owen Jester IV,” you might feel a strong attachment to that name. However, if a friend or acquaintance also loves it, they have every right to use it. Names are not limited; they are not like the last croissant at a bakery. Many people share names, and that’s perfectly fine.
Choosing a name for your child is significant, but as long as you love your choice, it shouldn’t matter how many people might select the same name. After all, names like “Emily” or “James” are common for a reason—they resonate with many. Your child will grow into their name, making it uniquely their own.
For further insights on this topic, feel free to check out our other blog posts, such as this one. And for those on a journey toward parenthood, resources like the CDC can be invaluable.
In conclusion, while naming a child is a momentous task, it’s vital to remember that names are not possessions. Everyone is free to choose names that resonate with them, and sharing names doesn’t diminish their significance.