Deciding to get a tattoo is a very personal experience. First, you have to think long and hard about how you will feel about having something permanently etched onto your body. If you are the type of person who will feel negative, embarrassed or scared about permanent body art, then tattoos are not for you.

However, if you are drawn to a certain way of decorating your body in your own unique style, then you should definitely consider a personalized tattoo.

In order to avoid disappointment, you should consider a design made by yourself if you are a creative person, or, you can ask your tattoo artist to design something personal for you based on your life experiences and personality. You could inscribe a significant date in your life; a portrait of someone or a tribal art sign that means something to you.

As a general rule of thumb, tattooing a lovers name on your body is never a wise idea. No matter how much you love that person now, you do not want to be stuck with his/her name on your body whilst being introduced to your new in-laws etc.

I have two tattoos and am planning my third one. Having a tattoo for me was such a personal and permanent decision, I took my time between them and thought hard about what I wanted on my skin. Once I had made my mind up, I did my homework and found the best tattoo artist in my area. My first tattoo was done when I was a 16 year old girl. I hid it from my parents and was so proud of it. Even now, that I'm 30 years old, I have no regrets about getting that very first tattoo. I got my second one a few years ago and now I have found a perfect design to compliment those two.

I do not desire to have a bodysuit of tattoos but I will be adding a few more to my body in due time. I always go for a design that means something to me. I have a tattoo on my lower back of my birman cat. This cat was the first pet I got as an adult, way before children and in a way, symbolized my coming of age. She was also a beloved pet and something that was unique to me.

My tattoos are in places where I can hide them if I feel that I am in the company of people who are going to be offended or judgmental by them e.g: a prospective employer. On the other hand, when I want them to be on display (and trust me, they are more often on display than not) I just wear a different cut of clothing like a shorter t-shirt etc.

You should absolutely never get a tattoo after a night of drinking or through peer pressure. This is for life people, think long and hard and get something that you will be proud and happy to have permanently on your body.

A tattoo must never be anything that you feel ashamed about. This is your way of choosing to express yourself and decorate your body.