Getting a tattoo is a big decision, as it is something you will have to live with, and hopefully enjoy, for the rest of your life. Once you've decided on a tattoo design you like, and want forever etched onto your skin, that nervous feeling in the pit of your stomach, a reaction to the thought of needles piercing your skin, over and over, and at an extremely rapid pace. As frightening as this prospect can be, there are ways to help reduce the pain of getting a tattoo.

Give a lot of thought to the placement of your tattoo. Spots on your body that are covered in only a thin layer of skin, such as your wrists and ankles, are very sensitive, and will feel more pain than areas that are a bit meatier, such as the backs of your shoulders and the top of your arm. If your tolerance for pain is a bit higher, you can opt for tatting up the back of your neck, but if you are quicker to crumple, you might want to get some ink on the outside of your upper thigh, instead.

Before you make an appointment with an artist, do your research. Find a place and a person that will make you comfortable. If you go to your appointment a bundle of nerves, your skin will be more sensitive, and the needle will hurt more. However, if you choose a place you've visited before and an artist you've already met, you are more likely to be relaxed when you go in for your tattoo, and a more relaxed state will mean less pain.

Bring along some music that helps soothe your nerves. You can bring along a CD, if your artist doesn't mind playing it, or your mp3 player and ear buds. Streaming your favorite band can help distract you from the needles, and make your experience seem to go by a little quicker. Word to the wise, however-if your favorite band plays death metal, or something else that you enjoy because it gets you pumped, leave it at home. Anything that heightens your senses can intensify the pain.

You may be tempted to drink alcohol, or ingest some other type of drug before you head into the parlor. This is a very bad idea. Alcohol and many other drugs meant to dull the senses will thin your blood. They can lead to heavy bleeding at the tattoo site, which can make you sick, and can also skew the design. Be sure to eat something before your appointment, and maybe bring some hard candy along, as the sensation the gun causes can lower your blood sugar. Plus, sucking on your favorite jolly rancher flavor may help distract you from the needle.

Keep in mind that if the pain begins to become too intense, you can ask your artist to pause for a five-minute smoke break or candy break. Just remember to remain and comfortable, and your tattoo will become and remain something you are happy with.