What do teens and tattoos have in common? Some say rebellion, others argue creative self-expression. For me, tattoos are an opportunity to be a reminder.

I hit the ground running when it came to the world of inked skin. At the age of 18, I’ve been in a tattoo parlor twice already. Each arm has experienced those skin-jabbing needles over a million times. Yes, it hurt. No, it wasn’t to be "cool."

I know two tattoos in my late teens can sound pretty sudden. Usually, by western society’s perspective, tattoos are reserved for a later age such as the early-to-mid 20s. So what does that say about me as a person if I already have ink? Have I broken laws, or am I just careless with permanent decisions?

Theodore Dalrymple M.D. in Psychology Today reflects that "a tattoo differentiates and individuates, while at the same time allowing identification with masses of others. A tattoo allows you to rebel and conform at the same time, eat your cake and have it, too.” Now, this doesn’t mean that anyone who wants to express their individuality should call the nearest tattoo parlor and set an appointment. Tattoos are mature commitments -- everyone loves to say this -- and should be given serious judgment and time to consider. There’s even a golden rule of waiting six months to a year thinking about a tattoo idea before getting it done. How long did I wait for my first? Almost three months. My second? Two months.

I never hesitated over my decisions to get a tattoo. When the idea came to me, I was sure and steady. I thought about the ink on my skin when I will be 40 and didn’t bat an eyelash at the concept. To be cheesy, my gut just told me this was the right commitment to make, and I have good reasoning behind the meaning of both. That’s a story for another time, though.

So, does my quick decision for something so permanent reveal the result of combining teens and tattoos? It’s up to you to determine the correlation. In my opinion, teenagers with the right mindset can dedicate their skin to needles with logical reasoning. It all depends on the individual. I certainly feel right about mine.

Interested in the process of tattooing? Check out this video!