It comes up at parties all the time, and dinner with friends, you know the line, "If I was going to get a tattoo, I'd get..." Most people have a thought along those lines, but not everyone commits the idea to actual ink. Now that you've decided to finally get that tat instead of just talking about it, you need to know there's a lot to consider.

The first step, of course, is choosing a design. There should be absolutely no compromise on this point. After all, tattoos are characterized by their permanence. It's important to choose something that is meaningful to you. Stay clear of clichés. Fads come and go in tattooing just as in music and fashion. Ten years from now, you do not want to be that guy sporting a cartoon on your ankle or a dated, tribal arm band. What tribe are all those people in anyway?

Your next decision is the where to place the design on your body. There's nothing wrong with visible tattoos. Lots of people have them, but before getting that flaming skull emblazoned on your forearm, does it mesh with your lifestyle? What will your mother/clergy/ spouse/ children think about it? How do you suspect your boss will feel? Many employers have set strict policies regarding the appropriateness of body art in the workplace. Think about how your chosen design and placement with affect the image you want to create for yourself. After all, your ink is a very personal reflection of who you are.

Now that you know what you want and where you want to put it, take some time to shop around for the right artist for the job. Of course you want to take a good, long look at your prospective tattooist's albums, and don't hesitate to ask for references. However, don't get so caught up in aesthetics that you forget to be diligent about things like licensing, sterilization and professionalism. Licensing is not a formality. A shop that doesn't comply with such regulations probably has something to hide. At the same time, steer away from a tattooist who thinks too much of his art to run his shop like a business.

You shouldn't let money dictate your tattoo choice, but you should be willing and ready to pay. Don't forget, you will be dealing with an artist who is creating a one-of-a-kind design for you, not a peddler of generic, mass-produced wares. Prices usually vary by size and amount of detail of the design. You are not only paying for the art, but supplies and time. Just like with anything else, you get what you pay for. Don't be cheap. A tattoo is an investment.

A tattoo is a huge decision. It's not something to rush into. You will be most satisfied in the long run if you take the time to thoroughly examine your priorities and motives. Well thought out body art is sure to bring you years of enjoyment and fulfillment. Likewise, a hasty decision will lead to a lifetime of regret.