In 1950 in the United States, 5 percent of US parents chose a name for their child that was not in the top 1,000 most popular names. In 2012, the same study was conducted and the number had risen to 27 percent. 

In the past, it was common for multiple kids in a class to have the same name. However recently, there has been a shift towards parents choosing unique names or spellings for their child. My parents fell into this exact group when deciding what to name me, and although I would never change my name, having a unique name comes with a few daily annoyances that only those with truly unique names understand. 

First day of class.

There is always some apprehension waiting for your name to be called off the class list on the first day. You are never able to give a simple, "Here" and move along because the teacher most definitely pronounced your name incorrectly ...and now you're spending five minutes explaining yourself. If by some crazy force the teacher nails your name on the first try, you secretly like them so much more... and for nothing other than saying your name correctly. But you do make an impression with just your name, and how many people can say that!?

Starbucks.

(^My name is Morrena) If one more person complains about getting their name spelled incorrectly... I listen for a vast range of names, some of which I didn't know even existed. But then again, thats probably how the barista feels when I give them mine and honestly, I am little to no help at this point because I have gracefully bowed out of this battle. So next time they spell your basic name incorrectly, try and consider that perhaps the barista knows someone who spells Katy with a -y and not an -ie... There are multiple spellings of names, shocking I know. 

Meeting new people. 

Unless you're a recluse, this is inevitable. You repeat your name at least three times while you watch your new acquaintance slowly try to process what you've just said. All the while, hoping they will just accept defeat and politely avoid calling you by your name. But no... People always want you to spell it out for them, which never helps, although they like to pretend it does. Side note: Do not ask me to spell out my name phonetically. That is simply not going to happen. 

Name Tags.

I'm pretty positive my name is spelled out on a list right in front of you so there are really no excuses. And yes, I want a new one and no, I'm not sorry.