I’ve been called plenty of other names throughout my life including “Maxwell,” “Maxer,” and “Maximus,” just to name a few. I don’t mind being called any of these names. They are all names I have been called throughout my life. People can call me whatever they choose; that's their decision. My experience with “Mad Max” helped me realize not to let what people call me or think affect me. I will always embrace my name for what it means to me. Nothing anyone says or thinks can change that. 

Max comes from the Roman family name Maximus, meaning “greatest” (Heger). I feel that this definition best represents me. I do my best to be great and embrace this meaning as my own. Max can also be seen as short for the noun maximum, which is defined as “the greatest quantity or value attainable or attained” (Webster). I also embody this definition because it captures the idea of working hard to be your best. An idea that is at the core of my beliefs and identity. These meanings paired with my past experiences have helped shape my understanding of my name and what it means to me.

I wouldn’t be able to appreciate the meaning of my name if it hadn’t been for my past nicknames and experiences. Although I may never fully live up to the definition of my name, my journey has taught me that greatness is not a fixed destination. Rather, it’s about striving every day to be my best self. That is what I appreciate about my name. It serves as a constant reminder of my growth and dedication to becoming the best version of myself. I will give my all to overcome any challenges I might face. If I fail, I will learn from it and try again. And that’s what I do. It’s not perfection I’m pursuing, but simply striving to be great.

Works Cited

Heger, Erin. “Max - Baby Name Meaning, Origin, and Popularity.” BabyCenter, Ziff Davis Company, www.babycenter.com/baby-names/details/max-3120. Accessed 09 Feb. 2025.

Webster, Noah. “Maximum Definition & Meaning.” Merriam-Webster, www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/maximum. Accessed 09 Feb. 2025.