Never been a fan of needles, I can honestly say I despise them. When I was little, I’d scream at the top of my lungs when a needle came close to me. Today, I have learned to refrain from screaming, but I still need to look away. Even though, I dread being poked by a needle, I still wanted a tattoo. So how do I overcome this dilemma?
The Plan
First, I need a reason that would make this decision worth it.
After going through depression and divorce, I wanted a permanent reminder of how I was able to find myself again through dance. My tattoo would represent the blueprint that helped restore me to my rightful self.
Second, I would need a design I love, that embodies my reason for the tattoo.
I chose a dragonfly made of music notes. The dragonfly represents transformation and the music notes are a reference to dancing.
Third, the perfect location.
My right foot because when you dance you lead with your right.
And finally, the best tattoo artist for the job.
Mike at Sacred Arts
Making it Happen
After 5 years of planning I finally made my decision and became the girl with the Dragonfly tattoo. I found the design online, and asked friends for recommendations on where to get it done.
After choosing a tattoo artist, I went there to check it out and ask questions. Happy with his answers, I agreed to book an appointment. That’s when he replied with “how about right now, I had a cancellation”. My anxiety began to rise as a voice inside my head screamed “NOW, I am NOT ready, NOT prepared”. I took a moment to push through my doubts and remember the reason why I wanted to do this. Ignoring the alarm bells going of in my head, I made myself say “yes, let’s do it”. I told myself “you can do this” and “it will be worth it” to get me into the artist’s chair and again to keep me there.
The prick from a tattoo gun is not the same as prick from a needle. Yes, it still hurt, but I was able to manage the pain with minimal effort. I started to relax, as the realization hit me… “I am getting a tattoo, this is really happening”. Even though I kept my eyes closed the entire time, I was still smiling.
The Aftermath
Everyone asks if it hurt getting a foot tattoo, but since I have nothing to compare it with, I never know how to answer. Rest assured it did not tickle and I still hate needles. Five years later I still love my tattoo and what it represents, but I don’t know if I will ever get a second one. I guess I may never know how to adequately answer the question “does getting a tattoo on your foot hurt?”
What was your first tattoo experience?
My name is Elise, I am a Bucket List Blogger, who inspires and helps others complete their own adventures by sharing my experiences and recommendations.