by Joanne Greco

Created on: March 23, 2007   Last Updated: May 22, 2007

Choosing a tattoo design is a very personal process because it's part of who you are. I have six tattoos myself and each of them have special meaning to me and represent a part of myself.

Think about what you're trying to express about yourself. What is it you want the world to know about you? One of my tattoos is a pair of ballet shoes. I was a dance teacher and studio owner before I became a mother and this was my way of keeping that part of me alive.

Is there something that has special meaning to you? I have three small hearts on my upper back that represent each of my three children. They each picked out the color they wanted and I had it done soon after we adopted them. It was my way of making a permanent, physical connection with them.

Is it something that will have a long lasting connection to you?
Is it something you will still feel strongly about in 20 years from now?

I also suggest not second guessing yourself too much. When you decide on a tattoo that speaks to you, trust that you have found what you're looking for and move forward with that in your heart.

Tattoos are a wonderfully creative way of expressing yourself to the world, and with a little thought and consideration, you can have a personal work of art that will last forever.

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