If you don’t like your current name then I say by all means change it!
I think you will be happy with yourself getting rid of an identity that doesn’t make you feel happy. The paperwork is a lesser evil in my humble opinion
And about ridicule? Well unless you name yourself Princess Consuela like Phoebe on Friends you will be fine!
I loved Phoebe, she was the best one out of Friends, loved her style of running. I think you are right, stuff the paperwork, be happy!
upvoted and now following you too. ;)