Everyone has his or her own reasons for a getting a tattoo. While some people get tattoos for no real reason at all, many choose to get permanent designs that have great personal significance. Here are some of the most common motives behind the decision to get inked.
In Memoriam (cover)
Experiencing loss of life is inevitable. Whether family members or loved ones, our dearly departed have long served as one of the most popular motivations for getting tattoos.
Family
Whether it’s children or grandparents, family is a common inspiration for tattoo designs. Children’s names and birthdates are a particularly popular choice.
Love
As the saying goes, love makes the world go ‘round. It has also been the inspiration for countless tattoos. While there are many options for permanently declaring your love, make sure it’s the real thing before getting a lover’s name tattooed on your body – removal can be a painful and expensive procedure.
Friendship
There’s nothing in the world better than a close friend. Some friendships span a lifetime and deserve a permanent tribute.
Hobbies
Tattoos certainly don’t have to be about other people. Whatever you choose will be with you for life, so it should be something that you truly love. Whether it’s travel or photography or the great outdoors, a tattoo based on your favorite hobby or passion is a great option.
Fandom
Have a favorite band or movie? From song lyrics to complex artwork, there are many options for declaring your fandom.
Artwork
If you’re one of the lucky ones who’s been blessed with artistic talent, you have the unique opportunity to design your own piece. Let your creativity run wild and design a true one-of-a-kind tattoo.
Encouragement
Inspirational quotes are one of the most popular tattoo choices today. They have the added perk of letting you play around and find the perfect font.
Remembering Your Roots
Where we come from is a big part of who we are. There are many options for commemorating our hometowns. You can choose something literal like the outline of your home state, or go more abstract with geographic coordinates.
Overcoming Hardship
Many people opt to get tattoos after going through tough life changes or overcoming personal obstacles. The Phoenix and the butterfly are popular symbols of change and rebirth.
Heritage
For many people, family heritage is incredibly important. Why not get a tattoo to pay homage to the nationalities of your ancestors?
Religion
Faith is the most significant thing in some people’s lives. If you’re the religious sort, a tattoo can offer the dual benefits of declaring your beliefs while showcasing some beautiful design work.
