5 Reasons A 'Meaningless' Tattoo Can Actually Mean So Much

Tattoos are becoming increasingly mainstream and normalized. Once considered the death knell for a professional career, body art is gradually losing its stigma and infiltrating all industries and social classes. From dainty ankle chains to sprawling full-back pieces, you never know who might be sporting ink.

However, there is sometimes a lingering whiff of judgment within the tattoo community itself. Some tattoo enthusiasts place a huge emphasis on the meaning behind a design and can be a bit dismissive or holier-than-thou when confronted with art chosen for purely aesthetic purposes. These tattoo snobs are often the type who sniff at pre-designed flash tattoos — even though they've been a staple of tattoo artistry for decades — and tend to say things like, "I just don't want to get a design I'll regret when I'm 80."

Of course, there's nothing wrong with choosing something with significance, and it's totally up to you whether you prefer symbolism in your ink. But that doesn't make a meticulously planned tattoo any more valid than a frivolous design. When you think about it, even trivial tattoos can be a profound form of self-expression. There are some surprisingly deep ways that a "meaningless" tattoo can actually mean a lot.

These days, there's a lot of talk about minimalism and self-discipline, which are certainly great qualities to help manage your life. But there's also something to be said for treating yourself to art that brings you genuine delight. Even Marie Kondo, the queen of living simply, uses her iconic "Does it spark joy?" technique to determine whether an item is worth having.

This rule is just as applicable to body art. When someone asks, "What's the meaning behind your tattoo?" it's perfectly acceptable to answer, "I just liked it," or, "It makes me smile." Times are tough for a lot of people right now, so hold on to happiness and beauty wherever you can — whether you're moved by artful but meaningless floral designs, spooky Halloween-inspired tattoos that evoke autumn all year long, or the weirdly satisfying shallowness served by a good nostalgia tattoo. Basically, you do you.

Of course, you don't want to put yourself and your budget into a precarious situation by spending money you don't have. But if you're looking for a fun, rewarding way to use some discretionary income, you could do a lot worse than getting a technically meaningless but joy-inspiring tattoo.

Humans are communal creatures, so it's no surprise that many people become deeply entrenched in an array of responsibilities and obligations to keep their jobs and social relationships afloat. In other words, you probably spend a lot of time doing things to make someone else happy, whether that's your boss, your bestie, or your kids. And while it's not a bad thing to be dependable or even selfless, it can definitely drain your social battery.

In recent years, self-care has become a rallying cry urging individuals to pay more attention to their own needs. To this end, you might see self-care gurus encouraging long walks, candle-lit bubble baths, or yoga. But restorative self-care can be so much more, up to and including a meaningless tattoo.

Getting any tattoo is a deeply personal experience, even if the design itself holds no special place in your heart. It's a chance to do something purely for your own sake and exercise a little harmless selfishness. It's your skin, so why not put your wants first when it comes to decorating it? Just like some people might indulge in a fresh haircut or manicure as a pick-me-up, you can equally head to the tattoo parlor for the chance to casually treat yo' self.

On a similar note, getting a just-because tattoo can also be an impactful way to exercise control over your body. This may be especially empowering for people who have ever felt a lack of autonomy. In this case, the design of the tattoo may not matter as much as the choice to get inked, adding a layer of unexpected depth to what would be an otherwise frivolous tat.

Perhaps you come from a strict family or a background where tattoos were considered verboten, but now you're blazing your own path. Or maybe you've escaped from a controlling relationship where you felt you had no say over your life or physical existence, and that random tattoo will serve as a reminder that you're now free and independent.

Getting a so-called "meaningless" or spontaneously chosen tattoo can also be a declaration of ownership over a body that may not always feel like your own. For instance, if you've ever struggled with issues like body dysmorphia or physically limiting disabilities, your relationship with your body may be rocky. And while tattoos are no replacement for the therapy or mental health support you may need to reach a better sense of self-esteem, getting any ink — even something silly, random, purely aesthetic — may help give you a concrete feeling of control over your physical existence. Just remember to reach out for additional support if and when you need it.

If you or someone you know needs help with mental health, please contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741, call the National Alliance on Mental Illness helpline at 1-800-950-NAMI (6264), or visit the National Institute of Mental Health website.

One of the most common arguments against meaningless tattoos is the fear of regretting it down the line. And if you impulsively choose a tattoo and later grow out of it, your instinct might be to feel embarrassed. But when it comes to getting inked, even a negative can be viewed as a positive.

When a tattoo no longer fits your style or values, it shows that you're growing and developing as an individual — hopefully, into a better and better version of yourself. A cringey tattoo might even serve as a visible reminder to curb similar impulses in the future. Now that you've had time to reflect on your design choice, you understand the importance of weighing consequences before you act, which will serve you in every aspect of your life.

Sometimes, the lesson of a previously meaningless tattoo can also go in the other direction by representing a time when you were more carefree and open. If you're trying to feel less burdened by the weight of adulthood, having a physical reminder of your playful side might help you find your way back to spontaneity and a zest for life.

Many people pour a lot of thought into their ink, carefully planning each element of the design and tying deep personal meanings to their tattoos. However, a tattoo doesn't have to be meaningful to become a remembrance. Even the silliest or most impulsive tattoo designs are like souvenirs marking the different stages of your life.

A randomly chosen flash tattoo might forever remind you of the beachside vacation spot where you got it done and dredge up happy memories of time spent there with friends or loved ones. A just-because floral watercolor tat may make you think fondly of the excited hours you spent poring over Pinterest to find your favorite art inspo. Even a short-lived inside joke or pop culture reference can take you back in time with a wave of nostalgia for your younger days.

So if you're covered in off-the-cuff tattoo choices — or want to get some casual ink in the future — you don't have to feel judged or pressured to find the perfect, timeless piece of art. Meaningless tattoos can be just as valid, beautiful, and surprisingly fulfilling as any intentionally symbolic ink.