Words have a tremendous impact on us. Many people can remember a certain line in a favorite movie that made them either laugh or cry their eyes out. A few words from friends and family members can help us get up the courage to do something we never thought we would do.
Our language has power, so it makes sense that people have chosen to put permanent words on their skin.
Tattoos with phrases and words can serve as reminders of a special time, a special someone or a favorite book, and even one word can help you keep putting one foot in front of the other.
One-word tattoos can be so simple, yet so powerful – you can catch a lot of deep meaning in one word.
Although such a simplistic tattoo may seem easy, it is not. There are no other tattoo design elements to hide behind, so you need to choose a word that is very important to you and that you won’t find clichéd or boring after a few weeks.
Here are six one-word tattoos that might inspire your next minimalist tattoo:
Breathing
This one-word tattoo can have meaning for people who worry.
The “Breathe” tattoo can be a powerful reminder to step back from stressors, be in the present moment, and focus on what is under your control: your breath.
Love of self
The term “self-love” is often associated with face masks, bubble baths and candles. And if that’s your favorite way to take care of yourself, awesome! However, self-love can go beyond spa days.
It can mean setting boundaries and putting your needs and goals first. If you are confusing self-love with selfishness, you may need a reminder that there is nothing wrong with putting your well-being first-in fact, it is often necessary.
…without self-love you are likely to be very self-critical and fall into pleasing people and perfectionism. You are more likely to tolerate abuse or mistreatment by others. You may neglect your needs and feelings because you don’t value yourself. And you may sabotage yourself or make decisions that are not in your best interest.
Courage
The Courage tattoo can be the perfect reminder that you can’t let fear make all of life’s decisions for you.
Sustainability
Many people get tattoos as a reminder of overcoming something. It’s not necessarily a constant remark about a difficult time, it’s more about remembering that you are cheerful and fully capable of overcoming difficult times.
Dignity
The idea that they are not worthy of other, better things can keep many people stuck in a life they don’t like.
Self-esteem plays a huge role in our lives, affecting how we allow others to treat us, how we treat ourselves, and what opportunities we take.
Passion
Every day can be imbued with a little bit of passion, whether it’s your approach to work or the way you enjoy lunch.