I’ve Wanted a Tattoo for Years but Haven’t Done It Yet
- Aaron Lenahan
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Introduction
For years, I said I wanted a tattoo. I’d save designs, follow artists online, and even daydream about where I’d place it. But somehow, I never actually booked the appointment. I always told myself “not yet.”
If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. So many of us spend years thinking about tattoos without ever getting one. Here’s why it happens — and how to finally make the leap if you’ve wanted a tattoo for years but haven’t done it yet.
Table of Contents
1. Fear of Regret
I kept worrying: What if I hate it in 10 years? That fear of permanence stops a lot of people. What helped me was realising that regret comes from rushed decisions, not thoughtful ones.
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2. Worrying About Pain
Pain was another big barrier. I imagined it being unbearable. The truth? It’s uncomfortable, but manageable — and most people find it less scary than expected.
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3. Not Finding the Right Artist
Sometimes the delay isn’t fear — it’s just not finding the right artist. Once I found someone whose style matched my vision, the decision felt easier.
4. Work or Family Concerns
Jobs, parents, partners — they can all influence the decision. It’s natural to worry about how others will react, but ultimately, the tattoo is for you.
5. Budget and Time Barriers
Good tattoos aren’t cheap, and big pieces take time. I delayed mine because I thought I needed a huge budget. What I learned is you can start small and build over time.
6. How I Finally Took the First Step
One day, I realised I’d been waiting for the “perfect” time — and it didn’t exist. I booked a consultation, and suddenly, what felt impossible for years became a reality.
Conclusion
If you’ve been wanting a tattoo for years but haven’t done it, you’re not weird — you’re human. Fear, money, pain, and overthinking get in the way. But the truth is, the only way forward is to take the first small step.
Your tattoo doesn’t need to be huge or life-changing. It just needs to be yours. And once you start, you’ll wonder why you waited so long.
FAQs
Q: Is it normal to wait years before getting a tattoo?
A: Absolutely. Many people take years to feel ready.
Q: Should I start with a small tattoo?
A: Yes — it’s a great way to test the process without overwhelming yourself.
Q: What if I’m still unsure?
A: Book a consultation. Talking to an artist is often the easiest way to gain clarity.
