10 Emotional Stages Of Getting A Tattoo

So you think you've got what it takes to get inked?

By Rachel Bailey /

Tattoos might signify that you've been in jail, your cult status, the everlasting love you have for your wife, a tribute to lost loved ones or even your utter adoration for an inanimate object. What ever your tattoo means, you're one of many who have them. Over twenty per cent of people in the world have tattoos. That's a hell of a lot of body ink, and a pretty big variety of artwork. From angels and feathery wings, to tribal markings and dragon emblems, the world is full of walking art pieces, and you can see them everywhere. The guy sitting next to you on the bus has his sleeves rolled up and he's got a whole jungle vine crawling up his forearm. The girl serving you in Costa has a flock of tiny birds up the side of her neck. Celebrities are flaunting them all over the show; Miley Cyrus commemorated the death of her pet puffer fish by getting it tattooed on her arm. Even several U.S. presidents are rumoured to have had tattoos; Theodore Roosevelt, is confirmed to have had a family crest inked into his chest. For anyone that already has a tattoo, you'll know it's not just a simple walk-in, walk-out job. And if you haven't got a tattoo yet but are considering getting one: take note. It's going to be one big emotional roller-coaster, followed by a brand new addition to your body which you'll (hopefully) love forever.