I have been told I can’t trademark my name as it is too common. How should I protect my name?

Trade Marks are split into 45 classes of goods and services and you pick the class or classes that cover your business or intended business. A legal affiliate will be able to explain the best way to register your trade mark, for example by submitting a stylised version of your name; a logo if you like, or a signature, as signatures are unique and inherently registerable as trade marks.