So, You Want a Tattoo? Here’s What to Consider
After months of heavy thought and consideration, last September I finally took the plunge and got my first tattoo. And while my tattoo may seem small and simple, the debate process was long and complex.
Deciding whether or not to get a tattoo isn’t as easy for some as it may be for others. Prior to getting my tattoo, and still today, whenever I come across people with tattoos, whether on their arms, legs, chest, or interestingly yet not oddly enough, on their head, I immediately begin to wonder what the tattoo means, why they chose that location on their body, their professional status, how the tattoo will look on them in the future, and, of course, if the tattoo hurt. Ultimately, I think about how much, if any, consideration they took in before getting their tattoo.
The decision to get a tattoo, I personally think, shouldn’t necessarily be a quick decision. After all, this is something that will be on your body for the rest of your life, unless you have the high expenses to pay for it to be professionally removed.
If you’re thinking about getting a tattoo, here are factors to take into consideration.
Significance –The ultimate purpose of getting a tattoo is the meaning behind it. Think about what you want your tattoo to mean and why. Often times, people get tattoos that pertain to their lifestyle or beliefs. For example, tattoos in remembrance of a loved one and religious figure tattoos are highly common. Also, the significance of your tattoo may impact whether you want words, a picture, or both, in addition to colors.
Size – Smaller tattoos are easier to cover up, but this also depends on the location. Also, bigger tattoos take longer to complete and cost more. Then again, you may want your tattoo to stand out and be loud. Or, your tattoo may have to be bigger in size in order for the detail to stand out.
Location – Remember, you have an entire body to choose where to place your tattoo, but choose wisely. While you may want to show off your tattoo, think about where you will be when you show it off. For example, if you’re at the beach, go ahead and flaunt it. But, if you’re in a professional setting, a tattoo may not be so fitting.
Regrets – Again, a tattoo is a lifetime commitment since it will stay on your body forever. You don’t want to choose a tattoo that you love now and may hate later. Interestingly enough, I’ve already run into people who strongly regret their tattoo. From having a boyfriend or girlfriend’s name tattooed on them, sharing a matching tattoo with another person who they now no longer associate with, or simply choosing a tattoo that they are now embarrassed to show off, the reasons for people wanting to remove a tattoo are endless. Don’t permanently place a tattoo on your body if you’re going to regret it later.
So, before you decide to get inked, take these considerations into mind. Also, to help you in the decision process, talk to friends and family members who have tattoos. When you decide on the tattoo you want, ask for their opinion and play devil’s advocate with yourself. Be sure to find an artist who you trust to place a tattoo on you and at a reasonable price. In this instance, you should ask friends, coworkers and family members of tattoo artists they know and you can also read reviews and prices online. Lastly, be sure to properly care for your tattoo.
