So you decided you wanna get a tattoo because it is cool, everyone has them- right? So you are just gonna' walk into the nearest tattoo parlor, pick a nice picture and get it done. Right? Wrong! There is a list of things to consider before taking that step.

- Tattoos are forever so be ready for lifelong commitment, as you will be looking at that pic for the rest of your life.

- It will hurt. Anyone who says otherwise, lies. Now it all depends on your pain tolerance, but if you are too scared of needles and/or pain, maybe getting inked isn't such a good idea for you.

- How it will affect your career? Even now the times have changed and tattoos are more sociably acceptable, for some professions, tattoos are absolutely off limits. Maybe choose to get inked on places you can cover with clothes easily.

- You must be a certain age to be allowed into tattoo parlor. Here that age is 18, but it may vary on countries.

- You must get permission from your parents/guardians. You think you could hide it, but they will eventually find out and you may get into trouble. Also, their advice may be really helpful. If they are against  it, you shouldn't do it. They may eventually have a change of heart (just like mine did).

- Be ready to spend some extra money. After all, you aren't buying a pair of shoes you are gonna wear for a year or 2. Your tattoo will remain with you forever, in case you forgot.

- What to avoid: names of your friends/significant other, popular band or TV show logos - they may be temporary, but your tattoo is forever.

Thanks for reading and stay tuned for more advice prior to getting inked.

~ Milena