My problem is that I want a tattoo really badly. I have for years. But I haven't found that perfect something. Maybe it's because I have this false idea that a tattoo has to be meaningful, or symbolic, or representative of something. My friends who have lots of tattoos simply see them as something beautiful and if they like the art they'll get one. I think part of my hesitation is because I don't have one yet and I'd be painting on a blank canvas. The crux of this issue is that given the lack of tattoos to date, I think I would only want:
1. Something extremely minimalistic and well hidden, but it would have to hold deep meaning. This becomes a struggle to find the "perfect" graphic/symbol/text that I won't regret down the line. If I'm just going to get one thing, it's not going to be a random symbol from a catalogue that I feel like slapping on myself on any given day. It's got to be very personal. This also makes it extremely difficult to decide exactly WHERE to put it. I have thought spine/middle-to-upper back area would be nice, other times, tricep, but then again it will depend on the design...
2. On the other hand, the other type of tattoo I am attracted to is a full sleeve or full back. This becomes more fun to play around with, explore themes and make additions/adjustments but damn is it a commitment. It also wouldn't suit my line of work that well...but no one could tell if it was on my back :3 I love how larger tattoos look and I think my mind would be better put at ease if there were multiple things I could add to the design - thereby removing the "perfect thing in it's perfect place" dilemma I seem to face. But I know this is a huge commitment, both in time and money.
Plus I'm Asian so in the back of my mind it feels kind of like a lame/wannabe yakuza look