u/Immediate_Ad1133

I (30f) feel like I keep making the same lists over and over: where I want to live, what career I want, how to make more money, how to give my kids a better life.

I’m an LPN, but I don’t enjoy bedside nursing. It’s hard on my body because I have severe back issues and a disabled arm from a birth injury. I’ve thought about becoming an RN, getting a business degree, or eventually doing cosmetic injections, but all of it feels so far away and expensive.

I want to move somewhere warmer and build a better life, but I also feel guilty leaving family behind, especially aging parents. I feel like I’m choosing goals based on survival and money, not because I actually know what I want.

For people who once felt completely lost: how did you finally figure out what you wanted? Did the life you chose end up making you happy?

Understanding the Values of Everyday Americans

I’m doing an anonymous survey on upbringing, values, trust in institutions, and cultural perspectives in modern America. I’m especially interested in hearing from people whose views they feel are often misunderstood. It takes about 5–10 minutes and all responses are anonymous

Has anyone here ever changed what they go by because a name started to hurt too much?

My name is Laura (30f). I shared my full name with my grandmother who basically raised me. I was the youngest grandchild by 12 years and being named after her was a deep connection between us and something very special to her. Growing up I never much cared for my name but when I got older I grew to appreciate that bond it made between us. She was my favorite person, my safe space, my soft place to land, she was everything to me.

She passed away 7 years ago, and somehow instead of getting easier with time, my own name has almost become emotionally heavy for me. Even writing “Laura” sometimes gives me an ache in my chest and I still get very emotional anytime I think of her.

Now im wondering if it would be weird to start going by Laurie or Lauren at 30 years old when literally everyone in my life has always known me as Laura?

Part of me feels guilty, like I’d somehow be letting go of the connection I had with her but Another part of me wants some relief from the daily heart ache.

So im just wondering..

Does Laurie or Lauren feel more natural coming from Laura?

Have any of you changed what you go by later in life?

Did people actually adjust, or did it feel awkward forever?