It's an awesome adventure going in and getting yourself a cool tattoo - this is all the more so true if it's your very first tattoo! If this is the case, you have some decision to make that will mean the difference between what you might later consider a bad tattoo or continue loving. Let's go over some basic ideas in this regard that will guide you in making a thought out decision for your first tattoo.

1. Don't use any standardized flash artwork without modifying it first.

Granted: there is a lot of well done tattoo art that is in those flash books.  But wouldn't it make your tattoo so much more meangingful if you re-did an existing design to your own ideas and interests? 

2. Choosing the right artist.

You'll be happier if you find an artist whose work you is something that respect and whose sense of style you can imagine being part of a tattoo for you personally. Most any artist worth his ink is going to get into the challenge of making something original for you either based on what you tell them or what you want done to some flash. Artists also commonly have a portfolio of their work either in the shop or online - ask to see it!

3. Be careful choosing words and symbols.

It's not that words or popular symbols are inherently bad to turn into tattoo art, it's just that they are entirely specific to ones interests and life at the time. It's possible that in the future these tattoos may not be enjoyed as much as a more abstract piece of artwork whose meaning can somewhat shift as a person changes. This point mainly applies to getting peoples names on your body, such as a boyfriend or girlfriend. (Bad idea!)

4. Be prepared for the pain but don't worry too much.

Think about all the people you know with tattoos - all of them took the pain and got out it okay. You will end up the same. In fact, you'll be fine. It's probably going to feel a lot like a bad sun burn that someone digs a needle into. (Okay, not the most comforting of descriptions, but.... an honest one!?) This doesn't sound particularly nice, but you can do it. If this totally freak you out, bite the bullet and use a numbing cream. Most tattoo shops offer them now, although, be warned, that they might make fun of you for it!

Tattoos are a fun means of personal expression. Don't waste yours on something silly or trite. Don't get something that later on you'll be wondering if Wrecking Balm tattoo removal cream can get rid of for you over night. Consider making your own with the help of the artist and put some real thought into it. In the long run, you'll be much happier than you would with some simple flash artwork.

Update: 

I decided to add a photo of a really - um - bad tattoo? This will haunt you when thinking about what tattoo to get, but in a good way. Don't be stupid like this dude.