I’ve been nudged, just a tad (it’s not exactly a secret), by an economist to share my thoughts on this topic. Recently, a piece by former Congressional Budget Office head Mark Field caught my attention, discussing the rise of tattoos among young Americans. He claims that this trend is a result of stagnant wages and a tough job market, suggesting that those with tattoos are opting out of upward mobility.
But what about those of us who are inked and also boast advanced degrees and successful careers?
While Field’s argument leans heavily on stereotypes—painting tattooed individuals as reckless and self-sabotaging—he did hit the nail on the head with one observation: “A tattoo serves as a permanent badge of rebellion, indicating that you reject the norms set by an out-of-touch elite. Any risks to your career or health are overshadowed by the joy of demonstrating that you abide by your own rules.”
I absolutely agree, but I’d argue this is just part of the story. The reasons behind why people choose to get tattoos are deeply personal and influenced by factors like income, age, culture, ethnicity, race, and religion. Plus, with rebellion and disruption being all the rage, it’s no wonder that “normcore” emerged to balance things out.
My Tattoo Journey
As for my own journey, I received my first tattoo over 15 years ago as a tribute to my heritage. At the time, few knew about it. Now, I’m planning my next piece, one that will be visible for all to see, and I can hardly contain my excitement. This upcoming tattoo will not only be personal (it’s connected to my daughter) but also a bit rebellious.
Look, I’m in my 40s, have two decades of wild and wonderful career experiences behind me, and honestly, I have zero interest in working with anyone who would judge me—or anyone else—based on their ink. So yes, my tattoos have become a little more about rebellion. Well, I’ve earned that right.
After all, I’m in good company with the likes of Winston Churchill, Dorothy Parker, and even Thomas Edison. Oh dear, Edison’s ink just sparked a brilliant idea! Make sure to check out my Instagram for updates on that!
For more insights on this topic, you might find our post on home insemination kits to be intriguing. And if you’re looking for top-notch information about fertility, check out this resource from NHS.
Conclusion
In summary, tattoos are not merely about rebellion or economic status; they’re expressions of individuality shaped by personal experiences and cultural backgrounds. Embracing ink can signify a rich tapestry of life choices, beyond the constraints of societal expectations.