Chapter 1: The Decision to Get Inked

Are you contemplating getting a tattoo but feeling apprehensive? I'm here to share my journey with you.

Tattoos come in an array of designs and styles. Essentially, a tattoo is formed when ink is introduced into the skin, creating a lasting image. The key difference between a tattoo and a regular drawing lies in its permanence and the surface it occupies. This permanence can be intimidating; after all, it's something you'll see daily for the rest of your life.

Historically, tattooing is an ancient practice rooted in various cultures, such as the Inuit and Polynesian societies, where tattoos served as symbols of tribal affiliation or rites of passage. Although the exact origins are unknown, it’s clear that tattoos carried deep meanings related to beliefs and identities.

In contemporary society, people choose to get tattoos for a variety of reasons, whether to showcase their art or to express personal significance. The concept of art has evolved dramatically in recent years, and tattoos have emerged as a limitless form of artistic expression. As such, the meanings associated with tattoos have shifted over time.

I believe that there are no 'right' or 'wrong' reasons to get a tattoo. Whether your motivations are social, aesthetic, or deeply personal, they all hold value. While tattoos have traditional meanings in some cultures, they also reflect a new context in our modern world, encapsulating both historical significance and contemporary interpretations.

Now that I've shared my thoughts, let me reveal the personal reasons behind my own tattoos. I have four tattoos, all discreet and small in size.

My first tattoo was inked during my inaugural solo adventure. It features a flower inspired by the pattern of the flower of life, surrounded by the four sides of a mantra symbolizing enlightenment. This tattoo carries a deeply spiritual meaning for me, representing the journey of life.

Positioned at the center of my chest, it’s a design that only I can see. I chose this tattoo spontaneously. Having contemplated getting inked for some time, I met a nomadic tattoo artist in Nepal, and amidst the transformative experiences of travel, I decided it was the right moment. We discussed the design together, and he helped refine my initial ideas into something more beautiful and meaningful.

When it came time to get the tattoo, I felt a moment of uncertainty. Doubts crept in as I considered whether I had made the right choice; after all, this tattoo would be a permanent feature. However, I reminded myself that I had made a conscious decision to go forward with this design, and the artist made the process comfortable for me.

Surprisingly, the experience was not overly painful, and it was completed quickly. Every time I see that tattoo, I feel it embodies a part of me, and I’m grateful for the decision to have it. While it holds meaning, I mostly appreciate the aesthetic joy it brings me. I’ve encountered opinions suggesting that tattoos must have a significant meaning, but I believe that personal interpretations of tattoos vary greatly.

So, if you’re hesitant about getting a tattoo because of concerns about others' opinions or doubts about its significance, I encourage you not to be afraid.

Recently, I added three more tattoos, each designed by me. One depicts two fish on my feet, a little one following a larger one, which references my surname meaning “fish” and symbolizes my family. Another tattoo on my back illustrates a fish (representing me) surrounded by two lines that spiral and point, signifying my life journey. Lastly, behind my ear, I have a flower tattoo, reflecting my love for nature and my long-standing affinity for drawing flowers.

Now you know all about my tattoos! I invite you to share your tattoo stories with me, your thoughts on getting inked, or any questions you might have.

This video by Dr. Matt explores the reasons why individuals choose to get tattoos, delving into the psychological and cultural aspects that influence this decision.

In this video, the channel @TheStyledogg shares five compelling reasons to consider getting a tattoo, highlighting both aesthetic and personal significance.