Naming a new baby can be a lot of fun. It can also be an agonizing decision fraught with politics and anxiety. The key to making it an enjoyable and productive experience is to be able to narrow your search and then realize that you may have to be willing to compromise.

To narrow your search use one of the great baby name search databases, such as the one provided at http://www.cixx.com/babyname.php

This robust tool allows you to search by name, gender, and origin. You can also specify that you want the name to begin with, end with, or contain specific letters. It also provides the traditional meaning of the name to further assist in the decision process.

Be careful about your compromises. Understand that many a child ends up with a name that no one really likes but that is the least objectionable to one or the other of the decision makers.  While this can work, it is not ideal.

Here are a few things to keep in mind as you are selecting a name for your new baby:

1.  Determine your baby name objectives.  Are you looking for:

A popular baby name
A family name
A unique baby name
An unusual baby name
An exotic baby name
A common baby name
A traditional baby name
A time tested baby name
An ethnic baby name

2.  Determine the gender. If you know the gender of your baby then it will be easier. Keep in mind that if your baby has not yet been born, there is always a chance that an ultrasound was wrong. It is always wise to come up with your top two or three names for each gender before the fact.

Most baby names are gender specific. However, there are an increasing number of unisex or gender neutral names. These are becoming both more common and more popular.

3.  Remember that your child will have to live with this name for his or her entire life. Be sensitive to that fact.

4.  Discuss the baby name process and ideas with your partner or other interested parties.

5.  Keep an open mind - particularly when you and your partner don't see eye to eye.

6.  Fit the name to the baby. Sometimes you will have a name all picked out and then when you finally get to hold your new baby you just get that feeling that the name doesn't fit. It is no problem. Take your time. Make sure you are comfortable with your decision. It does not need to be rushed.